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TIiB Mast PicturesquB Mountain Region an ths Globe. 



ULSTER & DEL(IWiP mim^-. 



STONY CLOVE & C. JI. U.K. ) 
KAATEKSKILL K.K. \ 



Narrow Gaiisre DiviKion. 




tM 



la Vi::^C:^v 



5:' ^J/' Matter DescriptiuB of the 

t^-iV^W ^v^ Haunts of Rip JlanUIinkle 
and haw ta reach then 



^ "^^^ll^zy^ "3 



This UiH.k mailed to any 
address on receipt of 6 cents 
postage, sent to 

N. A. SIMS^ 

General Passenqer Aoent, 

RONDOUT, N. Y. 



5*. 



.>-" 
^«^ 



65712 



WHIS book is issued by the Passenger Department of the 
Ulster & Delaware Railroad Company. It is devoted 
to descriptive matter pertaining to the Catskill Moun- 
tains : their structure, history and development as a Summer 
Resort; the sanitary advantages of summer life in the dry air of 
high mountain regions; the absolute need of rest and vacation 
tor the busy workers in city and town ; the scenic beauties and 
wildwood charms so lavishly spread for the delectation of every 
visitor. It also contains much general information regarding the 
leading points of interest throughout the range ; what and where 
they are, how to reach them and what to look for. In fact, it is an 
accurate guide book to the regions reached by the mountain rail- 
ways. 



COPYRIGHTED 1S95, BV 
N. A. SIMS. 



^m 



With the exception of the points reached by the railroads, the 
altitudes given in this book are in accordance with Prof. Guyot, 
who was the first to make accurate measurements of the Catskills 
a few years ago. The heights given by other authorities will be 
found somewhat greater in nearly every case. 



/Wss of 

The Kingston Frennoii, 

KondoiU, N. Y. 



01 



u-f^ 



THE CATS KILL MOUNTAINS. 






mx\ Rummer ©Jime, 

"The Statesman, Lawyer, Merchant, man of Trade. 
Pants for the refuge of some rural shade, 
Where all his long anxieties forgot 
Amid the charms of a sequester'd spot. 
Or recollected only to gild o'er 
And add a smile to what was sweet before, 
He may possess the joys he thinks he sees. 
Lay his old age upon the lap of Ease, 
Improve the remnant of his wasted span, 
And having lived a Trifler, die a man." 

^HE wisdom and value of the annual summer rest is no longer 
a subject of question requiring any extended demonstration. 
Originating in a mere social fad, to gratify the demands of 
wealth, or satisfy the insatiable longings of those who rarely become 
tired, it has now become a hygienic necessity in the physicial and men- 
tal economy of man which we can ignore only at our peril. If earlier 
generations knew nothing of summer vacations, or found little need of 
them, it was because they took more time to live and labored more 
deliberately and leisurely than we do to-day. They took life with all 
its duties and enjoyments by the day, while we take it by contract, 
as it were. The pressure of individual effort in the frail arteries of 
human existence is far greater now than it was then. As the human 
family increases in number, strife and competition grow more active. 
Men think faster and work harder, and women are tempted by the 
alluring results of larger and more congenial effort. All this demands 
careful conservation of vital force and greater economy and discretion 
in the management of this complex and wondrous human organism so 
largely in our control. Like a steam engine and boiler which, in 
addition to the regular supply of water and fuel, must have periodical 
repairs, so with man. An abundant supply of food and clothes must 
be supplemented by days and weeks of relaxation and recreation in 
which to regain lost strength and vitality. 







^■?/' 






Hlona tbc Esopus. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 7 

Few, indeed, will seek to curtail or abate the noble energies and 
activities that so proudly characterize the time in which we live. It is 
an ambitious age, when grand human achievements are jostling each 
other on the pages of current history. But those who stand day after 
day, and month after month, engrossed and distracted amid the labor, 
turmoil and vexatious hum of business life — many of these busy thou- 
sands often neglect to heed timely warnings and go down suddenly 
under the strain of continuous work. The flabby muscles, the hollow 
cheeks, the feeble respiration and the exhausted brain, all these indicate 
that a breathing spell out of town and away from business is impera- 
tive. A breath of nature at her best, uncontaminated by the dregs of 
city civilization, is a wonderful panacea for the weary and enervated 
worker of the town. 

Another aspect of the value of a summer vacation is almost as 
important to every class as that already presented, and even more so to 
those not overburdened with cares and occupations. This is the need 
of change ; change of scene, thought and action. In short, the inter- 
ruption of monotonous routine, whether it be in the line of restless 
activity, dignified leisure or consuming idleness. The desire for change 
is always a dominant impulse in the human breast. While the gratifi- 
cation of all these desires is quite impossible, and would prove unwise 
in any event, still to ignore any reasonable wish which may be possible 
to satisfy is sure to be an injustice to ourselves. If, then, so many 
thousands get sick and tired of brick and mortar, desks and ledgers, 
counters and drawing-rooms, elevated cars and blistering pavements, 
why not run out among the hills, the rocks, the green trees and fields, 
the fresh air and unadulterated sunshine, where the brooks, the birds 
and the leaves whisper in peaceful symphony } Nature writes the pre- 
scription and compounds the ingredients. 

For all this she makes no charge. But if we refuse the remedy she 
is sure to demand the penalty. Why should we decline the delicious 
and delightful re-vitalizing draught. 

The time for this vacation depends upon the climate in which one 
ives. In the cities of the temperate zones summer is the most enticing 
season in the country, and the most repulsive and unendurable in the 



8 THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 

city. Your wife is sick and tired of society and town gayety, the chil- 
dren long for the annual romp amid the green hills and valleys, and 
the frolic on the grass which is not under police protection. The 
Avhole family is gasping for fresh air and the country. The demon 
Malaria threatens if you tarry, and the risk of delay is dangerous to 
assume. Thus it is, and wisely, that people pack up the necessary 
wearing -apparel, and go to the mountains. Then, after a month or 
two of real country life, they return with renewed courage and vigor, 
which is applied to their customary vocations more effectually than 
ever. Home seems to have new attractions, or there is belter mood to 
appreciate them, and many of the old vexations and tribulations are 
forgotten. 

The best time to start for the country and how long to remain are 
among the details which must always be governed largely by circum- 
stances. Of late the tendency has been to leave the city early in sum- 
mer and remain late in autumn. Thus the vacation season, in the 
mountains at least, has been materially extended. Surely the country 
is never more lovely than it is in June, and James Russell Lowell's 
famous challenge, made nearly thirty years ago, " What is so rare as a 
day in June ? " is yet unanswered. 

Nature spreads her freshest and most enchanting charms during 
this short month, which everybody, e.xcept the doctors and the icemen, 
would gladly see extended over into July and August. Even May is 
often very pleasant out of town. Trout are ripe then, and it is a good 
time to whip the mountain streams for exercise, sport and fish. Then, 
again, the easel of early autumn glows with golden, gorgeous beauty 
which is all its own. Not a single June ingredient could improve an 
ideal September or October day, when 

" We gather leaves of a thousand dyes, 
.Speckled with crimson, spotted with green. 
And shaded with hues from Paradise." 



THE CATS KILL MOUNTAINS. 



©Y^ftere to (Sio. 



' I must away to wooded hills and vales, 
Where sparkling streams flow cool and silentl)-, 
And green fields wait for me." 



" There every bush with Nature's music rings, 
There every breeze bears health upon its wings." 



IF 



^HIS is a question which is often decided too quickly and care- 
lessly. A few circulars from the leading resorts and a hasty 
comparison of prices and the halcyon advantages and lux- 
uries offered, usually constitute the preliminaries. But the exercise of 
a little common sense will show that this is a subject of serious impor- 
tance. ' The monetary aspect of the summer vacation, though very 
essential to consider, should not be allowed to overshadow the main 
object for which the rest is sought. What manner of change do I need .' 
Where can I get the best and most revivifying lung food .'' Where shall 
I enjoy myself the best for the money I have to spend on this summer 
jaunt for repairs } Questions like these should largely govern the 
choice of places. Years ago, when our American summer resorts Avere 
so very few and comparatively inaccessible, it was easy enough to 
decide which of the two or three would be likely to prove the least 
undesirable. ' "How long is the stage ride.''" was the vital question. 
This tedious method of travel is now practically abandoned, and yet 
the subject is far more complex than ever, because of the unlimited 
number of resorts and the varied and bewildering attractions which are 
set forth with so much fascinating emphasis by the enterprising owners. 
But the query comes up for decision' every year. Where shall I go .' 

As the vast majority who most need the summer vacation live 
in the great cities which are located on or near tiie coast, like New 
York, Brooklyn, Boston, Philadelphia and Baltimore, and as the 
primary object sought is a radical change of air, it is clearly apparent 
that the mountain regions offer the most appropriate conditions for the 



lO THE CAT SKILL MOUNTAINS. 

fullest enjoyment and benefit attending the average summer sojourn. 
For those whose lung diet for ten months in the year is impregnated 
with the salty humidity of old ocean, to spend their money and time in 
an extended vacation at the beach, rolling in the saliferous sand or 
cavorting in the briny surf, seems quite unwise. This fact is becoming 
better understood of late ; hence the increasing favor of the higher 
altitudes away from the sea as a summer abode, which has been so 
marked. 

Here among the mountains we may escape the saturating, blistering 
heat of the dirty town and live in salubrious comfort and positive 
happiness all summer long. Being above the denser strain of cumulus 
or rain-cloud, the skies are brighter than those of the valley or plain. 
The air is pure, strong and dry, and the cool breezes of the green hills 
are freighted with those mystic and delightfully invigorating influences 
which no chemist has ever yet succeeded in analyzing. In fact, the 
old notion of attributing all the beneficial effects to health consequent 
upon mountain life to the reduced temperature, has of late years been 
found erroneous. Recent investigations by medical sciefttists show 
that there are other important ingredients in this favorite mountain 
prescription. An eminent doctor, writing of health resorts, treats of 
temperature as affected by elevation ; the effect of temperature upon the 
amount of oxygen in a given quantity of air ; humidity as affected by 
altitude ; the proportion of atmospheric electricity and ozone ; and 
kindred influences found to exist in the upper aerial regions. At an 
elevation of 3000 feet, a cubic foot of air at 32 degrees Fahrenheit is 
found to contain as much oxygen as the same volume of air at sea-level, 
at a temperature of 65 degrees. Even at the Equator life is pleasant at 
high altitudes. There is thus no loss of the life-giving oxygen by 
ascent. Cool air can be found at the sea-.shore and other low situ- 
ations, but it is made cool and endurable only by condensation and 
moisture and not by the rarefying process peculiar to the distilleries of 
upper air. Hence those afflicted with rheumatism, consumptive or 
bronchial tendencies, asthma, malaria, nervous disorders, or anything 
akin to these maladies, will be wise in seeking the mountains. Those 
who are yet free from disease should take no unnecessary risks. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



11 



The lofty mountains in their sublime silence, like the stars that 
bejewel the celestial dome above them, without speech or voice, are 
ever eloquent in their Creator's praise. Here the human mind is led 
to consider its relations with its maker. Here, standing above the 
turmoils of the world, man may compare all his boasted achievements 
of ages with the mighty spectacle of earth and sky which now fills his 
soul with awe and impresses him anew with his own comparative insig- 
nificance. Made in a day, the towering crags grow in beauty and 
grandeur as the cycles of eternity roll silently on. 

" They come ! the merry summer months of beauty, song and flowers 
They come ! the gladsome months that bring thick leafiness to bowers, 
Up, up, my heart ! and walk abroad ; fling work and care aside : 
Seek silent hills, and rest thyself where crystal waters glide ; 
Or, underneath the shadow vast of patriarchal tree, 
Seen through its leaves the cloudless sky is rapt tranquillity." 




- 










Cii tbc J^.-ivJiluU, 



THE CATS KILL MOUNTAINS. 13 




" Like mighty thinkers there they stand 
Above the soft, green pasture land ; 
Those grand, calm heights, like sages, hold 
Such treasures heaped from times of old ; 
Unquenched the living waters flow 
Which verdure brings to fields below." 

ITH the brilliant record of the Catskill range as a sum- 
mer resort, reaching back over twenty-five years, it 
would be natural to assume that little need be said 
now as to just where and what it is. Yet such an assumption would 
be hasty and inaccurate, and this book would be incomplete unless 
proper reference were made to the location and structure of this most 
interesting mountain group. This will appear evident in view of the 
fact that its visitors are no longer confined to the residents of a single 
State or nation, but come from every corner of the civilized world. 

Another reason for printing the brief paragraphs which appear 
under this title is to remove the strange notion that the Catskills are in 
danger of becoming a suburb of New York City. Overheated city 
journalists, who were condemned to think and write in their hot 
sanctums were guilty of heralding this brilliant injustice. The rail- 
roads have indeed done wonders for this famous mountain locality, 
but they never can remove a single one of the ninety or more statute 
miles which separate the charming region from that great metropolis of 
the western world. The romantic Catskills will never be annexed to 
New York City ; nor shall their picturesque wildness and native 
grandeur ever be sacrificed or lost in the dissolving shadows of men's 
ideas in brick and mortar. The shades of Rip Van Winkle forbid ! 

The Catskill Mountains form a spur of the Appalachian system, 
which stretches along the entire Atlantic coast from INIaine to Alabama. 
Their trend is from southeast to northwest, or at right angles to that of 



-/L'l-ifo^ 



'^'t 
~">>. 






^: 






Great Slide N'{ount;iiii 
"V-he highest of the 
Catskill JAaiige. 




Foui- tl]ousor)d 
two hurjdred feet 
.\bove tide w^ater. 



THE CATS KILL MO CONTAINS. IS 

all the other mountain groups in this system. The mountains proper 
cover a superficial area of about two thousand four hundred square 
miles. Ninety miles from the mouth of the Hudson River, and from 
eight to ten miles back from the western shore, they rise abruptly from 
the base over three thousand feet in the air. The various mountain 
peaks, which are almost innumerable, differ from each other in 
physicial structure and plastic form. As a whole they are quite unlike 
ordinary mountain formations in a geological aspect, being masses of 
piled-up strata in the original horizontal position, instead of the usual 
folds or fragments of arches. Originally their form is believed to have 
been that of a high plateau or mass of elevations. Glacial action is 
clearly indicated ; at least thirteen distinct visitations of this mighty 
propelling force peculiar to the early ages of the world's history have 
been traced, and the angle of direction recorded. 

The natural system of drainage here presented is worthy of notice. 
The entire drainage for the interior highlands of the Catskills proper is 
provided by the Schoharie Creek and its tributaries. Strangely enough 
these streams carry the water all the way around to the Mohawk River, 
and thence to the Hudson, one hundred and seventy-five miles from 
the starting point, which is in fact only eight or ten miles in a direct 
line from the Hudson some sixty miles south of Albany, where it 
receives the discharge of the Mohawk. 

This erratic group of mountains is full of interest to geologists and 
scientists in general. These vast masses of conglomerate are found to 
present all the conditions of a huge pile of quicksand as it existed just 
prior to conversion into Stone. The inherent tendency to slide is 
plainly seen on Slide Mountain, the Overlook and at various other 
points in the range. Professor Arnold Guyot, who has made more 
careful and scientific investigation and personal observation of the 
Catskills than any other man, believes that the surface of the earth in 
prehistoric ages had tenfold more water upon it than we find now. 
Thus in the physical epoch of antediluvian times, water was the great 
agent in causing these mountain slides. 

The theory of an original high plateau, which is now generally 
accepted by scientific investigators who have visited the range, seems 



16 



THE CATS KILL MOL'NTAINS. 



amply established by the confirmatory facts published by Dr. Guyot 
about twelve years ago. This important evidence was the result of 
some seventeen summers' investigation and study by the noted scientist. 
His observations on Slide Mountain alone, the highest and one of the 
most interesting peaks of the entire group, were of the greatest import. 
But after adopting the most careful theories suggested by science 
and investigation, regarding the formation and structure of this interest- 
ing mountain group, both student and savant will find ample scope 
for ingenious conjecture and rampant speculations. 



%.. 







"Cvcut Stream IHcar Ol•an^ Ibotcl. 



THE CATSK7LL MOUNTAINS. 17 




OTHING is known concerning the primeval history of this 
charming mountain region or its people. Indeed, the 
record of the seventeenth, and even the early portion of 
the eighteenth century is so fragmentary and incomplete that we are led 
to suspect that the chroniclers of that period were in prophetic league 
with the famous author of Rip Van Winkle, who was to appear upon 
the scene with his magic pen and realistic imagination twenty-five years 
later, or with the immortal creator of "Leather-Stocking," the most 
eloquent woodsman that ever lived. Even the voice of tradition 
ventures cautiously in the corridors of the remote and pre-historic past. 
But if anything were needed to invest the locality with additional 
enchantment and interest it would be most eflfectually supplied by these 
very facts. The embers of speculation are ever ready for the rekindling 
influences of such favoring romantic conditions. 

Just who it was who first sailed up this beautiful Hudson River 
— called by the Indians "Cohohatatia," meaning river of the Moun- 
tain — seems of late to be a matter of some doubt. The fact that the 
celebrated navigators Verrazano and Gomez were at least at the mouth 
of the river nearly a hundred years before Hendrick Hudson arrived 
there in his "Half Moon" is now well established, and it is highly 
probable that even they were antedated by other explorers. Verrazano 
says : " We took the boat, and, entering the river, we found the coun- 
try on its banks well peopled, and inhabitants not differing much from 
the others, being dressed out with feathers of birds of various colors." 
This was in 1524. 

But, without stopping further to analyze the priority of Hudson's 
claim, it is sufficient to note here that in 1609, when he first ventured 
up the noble stream in his curious Dutch ship, he was attracted by 
these great hills against the sky, and cast his anchor for a short inspec- 



THE CATS KILL MOUNTAINS. 19 

tion. He went ashore and was hospitably received and entertained by 
the Iroquois Indians, who were then in possession of the region. 
They took the navigator and his small party of sailors into a large hut, 
which had an external covering of oak bark. In this rude structure 
was stored their J;iarvest of corn and beans. Mats were spread on the 
ground floor of the hut, and upon these the Dutch sailors sat to par- 
take of food from a huge wooden bowl or tray. The Indians after- 
ward killed a fattened dog in honor of the great event, and to tempt 
the appetites of their white visitors. It was a notable visit, and the 
sturdy sailors seem to have been in no hurry about returning to the 
ship. 

Would that a picture of that quaint scene could be presented on 
this page, but unfortunately there was no artist "on the spot," and the 
kodak had not yet been invented. 

Then for sixty-nine years the records are practically silent regard- 
ing the Catskills. But on the eighth day of July, 1678, a company of 
Dutch and English gentlemen assembled at the Stadt Huis in Albany, 
where they met Mahak-Neminaw, the ruling Indean chief, and six 
leading representatives of his tribe. Here, after a lengthy and curious 
conference with the noted red men of the forest, the purchase of a 
large portion of this mountain region was effected. In consideration 
of certain trinkets and trifles of stupendous value to the Indian eye, the 
title, with its curious hieroglyphics, was passed. Soon after this the 
aboriginal owners of the "Onteoras" (hills of the sky) seem to have 
gradually disappeared from the locality. 

The untutored red men regarded these mountains with peculiar 
solemnity and a feeling of superstitious awe. They looked upon these 
gigantic hills as the abode of a great and powerful Spirit who con- 
trolled the elements of earth, made the sun, moon and stars anew each 
day, and in a large measure governed the universe. But the early 
Dutch settlers, who immediately succeeded the Indians, called the 
high mountain peaks "Keykouts" (lookouts or overlooks), where the 
spirit of the intrepid navigator dwelt and watched over the noble river 
which has since borne his name. There is a wealth of Indian lore and 
Dutch tradition which is readily adapted to the fertile fancies of the 



20 



'J'llE CATSKILI. MOCNTAIXS. 



skilled romancer in dealing with this region. But these are practical 
pages devoted to another purpose. And yet all this has made the 
Catskill region an enchanted shadow-land of legend and romance, and 
thus it will be handed down to the end of time. The mystic halo 
which Irving and Cooper spread around the Caskill Mountains is 
destined to outlive the towering crags themselves. The brush-marks 
of their eloquent imagination are as fresh to-day as when first they fell 
upon the pliant canvas of the future. 



i^ '^.-.^ J-v*^ 










THE CATS KILL MOl'NTAINS. 



icenic 



5i)eau'rL| 



oN native grandeur and picturesque and diversified landscapes the 



Catskills are not surpassed by any mountain region on the 
globe. " What see you when you get there?" "Creation," 
said Natty, pointing to the highest craig in the range. 

Hear the noted hunter as he proceeds with his graphic descrip- 
tion : "I was on that hill when Vaughn burnt 'Sopus in the last war, 
and I seen the vessels come out of the Highlands as plainly as I can 
see that lime-scow moving into the Susquehanna, though one was 
twenty times further from me than the other. The river was in sight 
for seventy miles under my feet, looking like a curled shaving, though 
it was eight long miles to its banks. I saw the hills in the Hampshire 
grants, the Highlands of the river, and all that God had done, or man 
can do, as far as the eye could reach ; and as for 'Sopus, the day the 
royal troops burnt the town, the smoke seemed so nigh that I thought 
I could hear the screeches of the women. If being the best part of a 
mile in the air, and having views of farms and houses at your feet, with 
rivers looking like ribbons, and mountains seeming to be hay-stacks of 
ij^reen grass under you, gives any satisfaction to a man, I can recorn- 
mend the spot. When I first came into the woods to live I used to 
have weak spells, and I felt lonesome, and then I would go into the 
Catskills and spend a few days on that hill to look at the ways of 
man." 

Look at the mighty crags as they rise three and four thousand feet 
in the air. Their massive, precipitous slopes clothed in cyclopean 
mantles of living green, each leaf performing its unerring function in 
the economy of Nature, and whispering its little role in the great ter- 
restial symphony of the universe. See the gigantic ribs of rock which 
protrude from the flesh of the mountain here and there, like titanic 
fortresses against the assaults of ages ; these tangled emerald slopes 




-^^ 







"^^ 



■^ ^ n 




THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 23 

upon which the sunshine and shadows of centuries have chased each 
other in cosmic glee. Go down into the enchanting cafions, dark, 
deep and cool ; the wild and rocky gorges where the shimmering trout 
streams babble melodiously among the gnarled roots, the mossy 
boulders and smooth pebbles, to the echoing refrain of the beetling 
walls of mountain which surround them. Listen to the mellow cadence 
of Nature's breath as it floats in upon your ear fresh from the verdant 
throat of the mountain. Nor sight nor sound mars nor disturbs the 
peaceful harmony of this arcadian realm. Look up yonder toward 
the head of the gorge where the sparkling water, tired of threading its 
winding way through many a rocky gulch, weary of its lazy, dreamy 
life among the stones and roots of quiet pools, suddenly leaps madly, 
beautifully over the precipice, down, down, hundreds of feet, to the 
bottom of the gorge in which you stand. See the slender scarf as it 
leaves the jutting table-rock and breaks into a sheeny shower of fleecy 
foam in its downward plunge, sending up a misty spray which bedews 
the surrounding foliage and paints the rainbow amid the sunbeams. 
Climb to the breezy crests that crown these lofty crags. Here among 
the clouds you are brought in contact with new and wondrous atmos- 
pheric phenomena. The filmy vapor flits up the mountain side, and 
scuds past your cheeks on the wings of the wind. Enveloped now as 
amid an ocean, with no sound or hint of life, anon the veil is lifted, 
the sun looks down upon you and the checkered valley slumbers in 
marvelous beauty at your feet. Or, sit upon this colossal boulder, 
dropped as a pebble from some mighty hand, and watch the gathering 
fury of a storm. 

Again, at daybreak, as the sun peers over the eastern horizon and 
glints the sleeping landscape with amber and gold, a rolling mass of 
clouds will be seen to cover the valley thousands of feet below, while 
the air and sky above are clear and blue. Anon, as the vapor begins 
to scatter in sublime commotion under the rays of the rising sun, the 
scene becomes indescribably beautiful. Many an artist has tried to 
enchain upon his canvass these early morning scenes of the cloud-man- 
tled valley. Then the fleeting, angry showers of mid-day, which so 
often gather, break and finish their noisy, busding careeer far below, 



24 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 




while you are basking in the placid 
sunshine of the mountain-top. Again, 
in the evening twilight, as the receding 
sun bathes the earth in tranquil glory 
and paints his transient banner in the 
sky, you watch in silent admiration. 
All this beauty, and vastly more w-hich 
human pen is powerless to describe, is 
freely spread for the summer sojourner 
in these mountains. Who can afford 
miss the feast. 



\ 



i 






W^ 



THE CATS KILL MOUNTAINS. 25 



MONG all the charms and attractions so lavishly spread for 
^^^"T'V i the enjoyment and pleasure of every visitor to the Cats- 
Lif"^\^ kills, none other is quite so valuable and beneficial as the 
pure, invigorating air. If every other desirable feature were absent, this 
attribute alone would make the region especially desirable for summer 
life. For without health, how could we enjoy the scenery or any other 
portion of the mountain menu } For breathing purposes the Catskills 
are unsurpassed and rarely equalled. Here the exhausted workers of 
city and plain may drink in new vitality at every breath, and thus 
strengthen if not indeed prolong their days. The Adirondacks and 
other more distant resorts, being at a lower elevation, have been found 
less beneficial in their healthful influences. 

As one ascends the breezy Catskills the exhilarating invigoration is 
plainly felt. The strong air of the upper altitudes seems to rummage 
around through the lungs, and to uncover a few millions of unexplored 
or disused cells, the existence of which was never before suspected. 
At this your whole system proceeds at once to celebrate the discovery 
with a grand hygenic jubilee, which you have no wish to restrain. 

As already intimated on a previous page, the sanitary advantages 
of the summer vacation among the most favorable atmospheric con- 
ditions is distinctly a modern discovery. Possibilities of this nature 
were frequently suspected and even hinted at, but the benefits were 
most imperfectly understood and quite unappreciated. To escape the 
burning heat and humid oppression of the cities, and flee to the cool 
mountain for rest and sleep, was regarded as highly pleasing and 
enjoyable. But it is only within a few years that the full measure of 
hygienic advantage aff"orded by a summer home among the mountains 
has been properly realized, and even now there is a vast deal more to 
learn on this very important subject. The mere exchange of sea-shore 



THE CATS KILL MOUNTAINS. 27 

for mountain air, while highly beneficial in itself, does not embrace 
nor explain all the advantages which are found to result. Eminent 
medical writers are now devoting most careful thought to this subject. 
Hence the first question of every intelligent seeker of rest and vigor 
now is, "Where shall I get the best air .' 

There is a delightful dryness in the air of the higher Catskills 
which is inimical to pulmonary affections, and this same quality is 
found highly beneficial to all enervated persons who live rapidly or 
work exhaustively in the field of business activity. One can sit on the 
breezy verandas up here, feel cool and even cold, without danger, so 
dry and pure is the air. Indeed, a brisk walk on these broad plat- 
forms in the early morning, and again in the evening, cold and breezy 
as it may appear, is worth a whole ton of doctors' prescriptions or 
patent medicines. Then, too, the perturbed soul will find a soothing, 
pacifying influence in this natural pharmacy of the skies which is easier 
to enjoy than define. There is a quiet solemnity pervading the atmos- 
phere which impresses the visitor so deeply that he actually forgets to 
worry and fret over his cares and responsibilities for the time. This is 
not an imaginary picture ; thousands have sat upon these rugged rocks 
and enjoyed the realization of it all. 

Like the scenery, this air is absolutely free. You can stand on 
the rocks and look away over thirty thousand square miles of varied 
and beautiful landscape, belonging to seven or eight difi"erent States, 
and you may use a thousand cubic inches of the choicest air every 
minute of the day and night, with no fear of exhausting the supply ; all 
without a porter's fee. 

The exceptional purity of the water is next in importance. This is 
in copious supply, bubbling up in sparkling springs, rippling forth from 
rocky crevice, tumbling over shelving precipices, urging on some 
ponderous wheel, or shimmering o'er the lazy trout. In fact, the 
water is good to drink, even very excellent for this purpose. It is cool 
and pleasant to the taste, and its eff"ects upon the system are highly 
beneficial. 

Thus, as the days of your mountain sojourn go by, there is a 
revitalizing process tingling through every part of your organism. 



28 



THE CATSA'ILL MOCWTAIXS. 



Your food tastes better and you eat more ; you sleep more soundly and 
with more restful, refreshing effect, and you are inclined to place a 
higher value upon life and its prerogatives than at other times when 
you were immersed in the cares and perplexities of business. In short, 
you become stronger and better fitted for the duties and trials of the 
future. 

It is readily seen, therefore, that the Catskill region is an ideal 
place for summer cottage life. All the conditions are favorable. The 
air, the temperature, the water, the scenery ; the ready, frequent and 
comfortable means of access, all combine to make summer home life 
delightful and beneficial. If any confirmation of this fact is asked' for, 
we have only to refer to the many hundreds of such summer residents 
who already own or rent pretty cottages all through the range. The 
mountains are thickly studded with enchanting cottage sites. 




rilE CAT SKILL MOUNTAINS. 29 



JTocjo to ©Jet Hftere. 




r^^^OR nearly fifty years after the Catskills were first thought of 
as a summer resort, the region remained practically inac- 



cessible and undeveloped, A hot and dusty day's ride in a 
lumbering stage coach, over a horrid, stony, rutty road, and up a steep 
mountain side was the inevitable method. The trip was uncertain and 
not wholly unattended with danger, A passing shower or storm might 
at any time wash out the narrow road or hurl the rude brush bridges 
down into the ravine. It was not enough to be an enthusiastic lover 
of mountain grandeur, but it took a man of health and vigor, with a 
goodly share ot courage and endurance, to stand the journey. Invalids, 
who would be most benefited by the air and scenery, rarely attempted 
the trip. This, however, was about the situation of traffic to the Cats- 
kill Mountains from 1823, when the first cabin hotel was built, until 
1S70, when the iron rails began to reach out among the hills. Of 
course the stage ride was somewhat shortened and improved by better 
roads and appliances during the latter portion of that period, but the 
steep and stony miles were all there, the jaded horses and the rocking 
stage. The discomfort and fatigue of the journey were only lessened 
in degree. Visitors were still expected jto relieve the poor horses by 
walking up the steepest hills. Nobody was really requested to do this, 
of course, in view of the ample price paid for riding. But the drivers 
were experienced and loquacious old mountain whips, and they had a 
way of getting their passengers out on their feet for an occasional heavy 
mile or so, "just to rest their legs," This was rarely resented by the 
average traveler, who, most likely, had been watching the tugging, 
over-heated, and, perhaps, short-winded horses uneasily and with some 
compassion. But this mountain visit could only be made at the price 
of much physical discomfort. 

Meanwhile the most charming portion of the range, the wild and 



30 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAIXS. 



beautiful region lying in the counties of Ulster and Delaware, was 
practically unknown and largely unexplored. Not even an artist had 
made a sketch there, and only a few sturdy hunters and barkmen had 
set foot among these mighty crags. The great mountain chain had 
scarcely been penetrated on this side, which was destined so soon to 
become the great and easy approach for the entire Catskill Mountain 
region. The giant Slide Mountain, which had been looking down 
upon every other peak in the range for countless ages, was quite 
unknown. The variety and magnificence for which this vast and 
beautiful southwestern region is now so justly famous, and which have 
since so greatly enhanced the fame of the Catskills and made it the 
great popular summer resort that it is, was yet a sealed book. 




THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 31 



Hfte LlP^ter ^ ©efaaoare S^aiProac^. 



iJL. de 



^HE advent of the iron horse in 1870 marked the new era in 
e history of these favored mountains, as it has in the 
development and progress of so large a share of human 
effort in these modern times. The iron rails reached out from the river 
to the mountains across and over the hills themselves. The construction 
of the Ulster & Delaware Railroad was begun in 1866. Everybody 
looked upon it as a wild project, with little chance of success, and the 
enterprise proceeded slowly at first. But those enlisted in the scheme 
had faith in the final result, and they resolved not to be deterred. 

The line was not an easy one to build. There was, indeed, a 
natural valley or pass through the mountains which the engineers 
could and did follow. But this valley was exceedingly crooked and 
tortuous,, and there were many things to consider and provide for. 
Even now, the observing tourist will have doubts whether nature ever 
intended that man should stretch a railroad through this valley. The 
grade would be necessarily heavy most of the way, and there was a 
fitful, nervous mountain stream, with many excitable and wayward 
little tributaries pouring in from every gorge and gulch. Most of the 
time all these were quiet and inoffensive enough. The speckled trout 
disported lazily in the crystal water, the streams glistened in the noon- 
day sun like silver threads in the woof of the mountain, and all night 
long their rippling refrain made sweet melody in the wild woodland. 
But when the floods came and the deep snows melted, these pretty rills 
grew wild with their own importance. They swelled into large roaring 
torrents in a few hours, flooding the narrow valley, and growing so 
angry as to carry everything down before them — bridges, embank- 
ments, trestles, roadways — nothing was respected. True, these streams 
had never been in conflict with a railroad, but there was every reason 
to believe they would treat this like all other modern innovations of man, 
if not with increased antagonism and disrespect. Such, at least, was 
the judgment of the engineers, and they built the road upon this theory. 



THE CATS KILL MOUNTAINS. S3 

It was well laid out and firmly constructed. The best materials 
were used at every step in its progress, and it has been solidified and 
strengthened every year since with little regard to cost, but with every 
care for stability, security, efficiency and comfort, until to-day the 
Ulster & Delaware Railroad is second to none in security of road-bed, 
safety, efficiency and comfort of equipment. 

Of course this railroad proved the great developing factor of the 
Catskills as a popular summer resort. It was not built in advance of 
its need, but it was the very thing the people had been waiting for. It 
opened an entirely new section of the mountains which rivaled, if not 
even surpassed in beauty, any other portion of the range, and made the 
entire region easily accessible to all. 

As yet, however, there were few or no hotels in this new region, 
where visitors could be entertained. But the running of trains on the 
new railroad was begun in May, 1870. At once hotels and boarding 
houses were built at various points along the line, and visitors came in 
increasing numbers. Many came to fish, as the streams abounded in 
trout, but others came to get the bracing air and enjoy the beautiful 
scenery. They brought their families, their friends and their baggage. 
Finding they could come and go between business and a delightful 
summer home with little loss of time and at slight cost, business men 
left their families to enjoy the mountains during the heated term. 
Thus it was that the completion of the railroad gave such a new 
impetus to the mountain boarding business. 

Not even the poor old stage-horses showed either enmity or envy 

toward their modern iron competitor. Everybody for once was 


delighted to miss the stages. Visitors poured into the mountains by 

thousands, and Rondout and Kingston at once became the great 
diverging points for the Catskills, as they have been ever since and 
will remain. To reach the mountains rapidly, comfortably and enjoy- 
ably, are the essential points with all visitors, and these requirements 
are fully met by the swift trains and the elegant coaches of the Ulster i.\: 
Delaware Railroad. An hour's whirl up the beautiful valley from Kings- 
ton brings one almost in the heart of the mountains and without weari- 
ness or fatigue. 
3 




Tn ibc .i5ui flnNan Uallcv. 



THE CATSKILL MOCNTAJNS. 



35 



Ufte ©oP^ sKff S^aif f^oufe. 



-^^^^i^^ffruk^ 




ONDOUT is the eastern or river terminus of the mountain 
railway system. It was formerly a village, having been 
incorporated in 1849, and here the Dutch established in 
1614 one of the first settlements in the State. But the place has now 
outgrown the name, having united with its sister village, Kingston, and 
become incorporated as The City of Kingston in 1872. The name 
'•Rondout' is, however, retained locally, because of the retention of 
the old post-office of that name. It is the river port of the city, being 
situated on the northerly bank of the Rondout Creek, near its mouth. 
Being the tidewater terminus of the Delaware & Hudson Canal, and 
having extensive manufacturing interests, it has long enjoyed the largest 
river commerce of any point on the Hudson except Albany. Several 
steamboat lines, passenger, freight and towing boats are operated here ; 
and it has to-day, doubtless, more steamboats than any other place on 
the river. The fleet and the famous ''Mary Powell " makes daily trips 
between this port and New York in summer. Then there are the large 
steamers of the Romer & Tremper Night Line, the elegant Hudson 
River Day Boats, the New York Central & Hudson River and 
Philadelphia, Reading iS: New England trains. From all these con- 
verging tributaries of transportation the Ulster & Delaware trains receive 
liberal and increasing traffic daily. Winding gracefully and steadily up 
the grade from the river, describing a huge letter "S," the trains inter- 
sect with the West Shore Railroad near the centre of the city. 




THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 37 

INGSTON (Union Depot) is thus the first stop on the Ulster 
& Delaware line. Here all trains on the West Shore and 
Wallkill Valley Railroads connect with the Ulster & Dela- 
ware trains for the mountains, this being also the northern terminus of 
the Wallkill Valley Road. The fast Catskill Mountain specials on the 
West Shore line, with their elegant parlor coaches, are here transferred 
to the Ulster & Delaware track. 

These are among the fastest summer trains scheduled upon any 
road in the country. The run from New York is made in two hours 
and fifteen minutes. During the regular season there are about forty 
trains which stop at this station daily. This will give some idea of the 
vast amount of summer traffic handled at this place. 

While the switches are being made there is time to catch a distant 
view of the mountains looking directly north from the station. Here, 
in plain sight, are the famous Overlook, Plattekill, High Peak, or 
Mount Lincoln, the Kaaterskill and South Mountain Peaks. Near the 
crest of the Overlook, which is nearest of this eastern group, will be 
seen the Overlook Mountain House, a large white building standing 
out clearly against the sky, 2978 feet above the river. A few rods to 
the right, on the very crest of the mountain, 3150 feet above tide, 
appears an elongated vertical speck, an observatory about 50 feet high. 
The loftiest peak of the group is Mount Lincoln, 3664 feet. Still 
farther to the right, and across the Cove, the mammoth Kaaterskill 
Hotel will be seen, appearing almost like a village in the sky. A short 
mile more to the right, and over against South Mountain, is the famous 
old Catskill Mountain House, the pioneer resort in the range. 

But before the train starts for the .hills let us inspect the equip- 
ment in which you are to make the ascent. Note the powerful 50-ton 
locomotive of the latest and most improved make, as it stands hissing 
and throbbing, impatiently waiting for the run. Two, and sometimes 
three, of these modern steeds are attached when the train is exception- 
ally heavy. The coaches are large, new and elegantly fitted through- 
out. The latest improved platform and Westinghouse automatic air- 
brakes are used on all trains, and the entire equipment is the best now 
in use on first-class roads. The road is standard guage, with heavy 



88 THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 

steel rails over the whole line. The management has long been noted 
for promptness, carefulness and general efficiency. The conductors 
and trainmen will be found uniformly polite, eflicient and obliging. 
The trains make excellent time, and no accidents to passengers have 
ever occurred on the line. 

At length, as the train pulls out for the mountains, the traveler 
finds himself whirling over the level flat in the northern edge of the 
city. 

FAIR STREET is the first stop. This is only a few rods from the 
famous old "Senate House," built in 1676, where the first constitution 
of New York State was framed and adopted. The woodwork was 
destroyed when the town was burned by the British in October, 1777, 
but the old stone walls stood like adamant against the invaders, which, 
with many others like it, are still standing in this ancient and historic 
town. This structure is now owned by the State. It maybe seen from 
the train by a vigilant eye just before Fair Street Station is reached. 
The train next crosses the Esopus Creek on an iron bridge, speeds 
rapidly over fertile lowland meadows, and then plunges boldly into Ihe 
Ulster & Delaware valley, which, throughout its entire length, is one oi' 
the most picturesque and beautiful to be found. The ascent is 
gradual, though continuous, all the way to West Hurley, nine miles 
from Rondout, and you have then reached an elevation of 540 feel 
above the river. The track hugs the left or southern slope of the val]e\- 
as you go up. 





THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 39 

EST HURLEY is the first station on the hill. It is a 
bit of a hamlet lying on the left, largely devoted to the 
mining and shipping of bluestone, which is abundant 
in this vicinity. There is here a hotel and several stores and shops. 
But the stop which is made here is important chiefly because of the con- 
nection with the Overlook Mountain House. Visitors for the Overlook 
Mountain, Woodstock village and the adjacent region may leave the 
train and take the stages, which are in waiting at this point. The hotel, 
which is near the crest of the mountain, 2978 feet above tide, stands 
out more boldly than ever on the mountain top, which seems very high 
and attractive from this point. The little Woodstock village, not visible 
from here, nestles at the very base of the mountain, five miles away. 
It has a good hotel, and there are several boarding houses scattered all 
about. Mead's Mountain Home, one of the oldest resorts in this 
region, is about half way up Overlook Mountain, on a commanding 
divide. The Overlook Hotel is yet another two miles steady climb 
away ; but the road is excellent, and the breezy destination with all its 
attractions is glorious indeed. It commands a most excellent and 
beautiful view, and though the intervening miles below the mountain 
are long and stony, there is always a rich and charming feast awaiting 
near the sky at the end. 

The railroad is now nearly level and about as straight as it ever 
gets. Straight roads and mountains are in fact romantically incom- 
patible, hence the Ulster & Delaware was not built that way. 

The train speeds rapidly over this level stretch of track. Brief 
stops are made at 

OLIVE BRANCH and BROWN'S STATION on the way, unless 
the train is an express, which for present purposes it is not. This is 
indeed a remarkably peaceful locality, well supplied with modest board- 
ing houses, where tired humanity can rest and revel in the air of the 
foot-hills with careless abandon, and at low rates. You will have 
noticed that at West Hurley the trend of the mountains turned to the 
west, almost at right angles with the eastern front. 

BRODHEAD'S BRIDGE, the next stop, is another bluestone 
depot, with a rubbing and planing mill. Nothing in sight tempts one 



*; 

:*>i 




OS 



^ 





THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 41 

to leave the train here, but many do, as there are quiet farm houses all 
about, with a hearty welcome to visitors. 

Here the Esopus Creek is encountered again and crossed eighteen 
miles from Rondout, it having been on a big sweeping bend southward 
since it was crossed near Kingston. But from this time on, the creek 
and railroad do not part company until one of the sources of the 
stream is reached. Soon after leaving this station the road turns 
abruptly to the north and pursues that general course until Phoenicia 
is reached. 



^^ HOKAN is the first stop on this stretch. This is one of the 
few old Indian names that have been retained in the geo- 
graphical nomenclature of this locality. It was originally 
spelled " Ashokan," however. It is often termed the "Gateway of the 
Catskills," but several other similar entrances will be found. It is a 
pleasant little mountain hamlet with churches, schools, stores and 
niimerous summer boarding resorts, where many city people dwell con- 
tendedly most of the summer. On approaching the station the beautiful 
" High Point " peak, 309S feet skyward, is seen on the left in a southerly 
direction. Near the station are several old charcoal kilns, such as may 
be seen at other points along the route. On leaving Shokan Station, 
looking about four miles west, a cluster of five lofty mountain peaks, 
forming a crescent, will be seen. To the right is the "Wittenberg," 
3778 feet; next is Mount Cornell, 3681 feet high. Some two miles 
beyond this chain are the noted Slide Mountains, highest of all, 4205 
feet; Peakamoose, 3875 feet, and Table Mountain, 3865 feet high. 
For all of these most interesting mountains in the range the Ulster & 
Delaware Railroad is the only approach. Three miles beyond Shokan 
the train halts briefly at 

BOICEVILLE, long enough to leave the mail bag, though not 
many passengers, as the locality is not largely devoted to summer 
boarding as yet. It is another bluestone depot. 




I. Ui^b Pomt. 2. UAcar Sbohan. 



Sban^al;cn Uallcv. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 48 

gc^r"OUNT PLEASANT is the next station, and it has one 
of the picturesque Httle depot buildings which have 
* .-A^r^^A.. lately been constructed on the line of this road. It is 
a very attractive and popular summer section, with many hotels and 
private resting places dotted here and there in the narrow and charming 
valley, which is here encircled with towering mountains. "The Cor- 
ner " is the old and decisive name by which the place was known, and 
still remains to designate the postoflfice. At the station guests for nearly 
forty boarding houses leave the train, making a lively racket with kisses 
and baggage all summer long. 

The surrounding mountains are now encroaching upon the nar- 
row confines of the valley in such a peculiar and aggressive manner 
that one is highly impressed with their beauty. The old Esopus Creek 
winds in and out here in a careless and happy way, with no appearance 
of haste in reaching the Hudson ; the mountain climbs are easy and 
inviting, and hundreds of visitors are always delighted with Mount 
Pleasant and its vicinity, as the numerous resorts clearly show. 



[f^^HCENICIA is now three miles up the valley, and 790 feet 
above tide-water. This is one of the most important sta- 
tions on the line, and a very lively railway centre. The 
valley is here very narrow, and there is barely room for the railroad, the 
creek and the old wagon road. It is the entrance to the famous Stony 
Clove and the southern terminus of the Stony Clove & Catskill Mountain 
Railroad. Passengers for that region and the old Greene County 
resorts must now change cars, as that road is a narrow-guage line. 
This route and locality will be referred to in later pages of this book. 
Here, near the station on a broad plateau, is the large and popular 
Tremper House, which was the first extensive hotel built in this part of 
the range. It is a favorite resort with many, and there are several 
delightful drives in the vicinity. The southern ledges of Mount 
Sheridan, in the rear of the house, afford an excellent view of the Wit- 
tenberg, Cornell, Panther, Balsam and Slide peaks, and the Shandaken 



I 





^^jm^- 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 45 

and Woodland valleys. There are several smaller houses of entertain- 
ment in or near the hamlet. There is also a pretty little Methodist 
church, and a few stores and dwellings. Trains usually meet and pass 
each other here, and the station is a bustling spot about that time— an 
excellent place to study choice bits of human nature and watch the 
dexterity of baggage men who are here called upon for rapid work. 

As the train moves on up the valley, winding closely along the 
left bank of the creek, which is now growing smaller and less 
aggressive as the vicinity of its source is approached, the narrow valley 
becomes more wild and beautiful every mile of the way, and the 
mountains on either side are higher and grander. Ever and anon you 
seem to be walled in on every hand, but the engine finds the way out 
and onward. A mile up the track from Phoenicia is "Woodland 
Valley," or "Snyder Hollow," opening on the left. This is one of the 
most picturesque and charming wildwood passes in the whole range, 
about nine miles long, and reaching to the base of the Wittenberg, 
Cornell and Slide Mountain itself. The temptation is to use a page in 
description at this point, but it is better to leave it all for the personal 
eye of the visitor. As the train proceeds, Mounts Sheridan, Sherrill 
and North Dome loom up grandly on the right with deep, dark gorges 
between. The next station is 

ALLABEN, formerly "Fox Hollow," the older and more 
romantic name. You have now risen nearly 200 feet in the last five 
miles. In this immediate vicinity, wild and woody as it seems, will be 
found eitrht or ten quiet boarding houses. 



® 



jAAf 




<'*i--- 
'*% 




^ 




f- 



->i\ 



1 all^ 2. cbc tjovscsboc anj Oran^ Ibotcl. 3. On tbc Suininit. 4. /Boss IRavinc. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 47 

/^^^ HANDAKEN is next, 1060 feet above tide and n miles 
^^^^ away. This is a highly popular summer region with many 
^^5=s^ visitors always, and a charming locality it is. The name is 
Indian, meaning "rapid water." Over 500 visitors can be entertained 
in and near the hamlet, and nearly 1500 more may ride away in the 
numerous stages which are in waiting for Lexington, Westkill, Spruce- 
ton and other distant and popular resorts. This is always a lively spot 
about train time. The Palace Hotel, formerly the "Lament House," 
is the largest and most modern in the vicinity. It is near the station, 
new and well appointed. Many other houses are scattered all about, 
and it is a very common thing to hear the response " Shandaken " 
when Catskill visitors are asked concerning the special locality of their 
mountain sojourn. 

A pleasant legend invests this portion of the valley with interest as 
the scene of buried treasure of immense value, some of which being the 
property of noted British officers. But the most diligent and patient 
excavations have thus far failed to uncover anything of this nature. A 
remarkable butternut tree growing near Shandaken is worthy of men- 
tion. It is nearly a hundred years old, and is said to have borne 
seventy-five bushels of nuts in 1878. The branches spread horizontally 
near the ground over an area eighty-four feet in diameter. 



|f7=^;^ IG INDIAN is now reached after an ascent of 150 feet, 
^ j^^--^ which is distributed over three very crooked miles. You 
JL^;^ look ahead and declare that the train has got to the end of 
its tether this time sure. A great wall of mountain rises all around. 
But you wait patiently while the tourists for Slide Mountain and all that 
region get themselves and their luggage into the stages. It is eleven 
miles distant. But this mountain deserves a separate paragraph. On 
the way to it is the New York State Deer Park and the Winnisook 
Lodge, and beyond it is the Neversink trouting region. 

This is the station for the charming Big Indian valley, which well 
deserves more graphic and extended notice than can be accorded to it 



48 THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 

here. Every visitor should either ride, walk or wheel through this 
lovely valley, where nearly every other house is a post-office, and the 
stage crosses the little creek in each case anew to have the mail-l^air 
overhauled while you wait. 

There is a deal of Indian lore pertaining to this lovely valley, and 
while the engine is gathering force for the big hill just ahead, a bit of 
this tradition maybe read with interest, "Big Indian" was the popu- 
lar name of a stalwart red man who lived in this locality. His tribal 
cognomen was " Winnisook," and he is said to have been seven feet 
in height, and possessed of great muscular power. He fell in love 
with a comely white maiden living down on the fertile plains, named 
Gertrude Molyneaux. But the girl married a rival suitor of her own 
race, one Joseph Bundy. The alliance proved unhappy, however, and 
the young wife was tenderly reminded of what might have been had she 
cast her lot with the gallant and dusky warrior of the woods. In fact 
she finally transferred her affections and person to him. The Indians 
were much given to stealing cattle from their neighbors, the Dutch 
farmers, dovvn on the plains. On returning from one of these forays, 
with Winnisook as rear guard, they were overtaken near this point in 
the Shandaken Valley by a company of pursuing farmers under the 
lead of Joe Bundy. The latter, sighting the Indian giant, drew his 
trusty bead upon him and inflicted a fatal wound, remarking with 
jealousy, to his comrades, "I think the best way to civilize the yellow 
serpent is to let daylight into his black heart." The dying warrior took 
refuge in the hollow of a big pine tree near by, where he was afterwards 
found dead, standing upright, by his pursuers. Learning of the 
tragedy, his faithful widow, who had shared his wigwam for several 
years, came upon the scene with her dusky children of the woods. She 
fell upon the body in frantic grief, and spent the rest of her life near 
Winnisook's grave. The stump of this old tree was finally covered by 
a portion of the railway embankment. 

But the bell rings and you are oft' for the grand mountain climb. 
As the train curves out from the station you look out and up toward 
the sky on the right, and see a huge white building with a vast front 
and many towers. It is the " Grand Hotel," only two or three miles 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



49 



distant in a direct line, but five miles by rail. The engine snorts and 
groans convulsively, but you are moving steadily up Pine Hill, rising 
about 1 50 feet per mile. The back platform of the rear car is the place 
to view the lovely Shandaken Valley as it recedes from sight, and also 
the charming Pine Hill Valley on the right as you proceed. It is truly 
a fascinating view. 

inir^V INE HILL is the next station reached. The train is not yet 
ATr==7 on the summit as will be seen, and the brakes must be very 
jLi firmly applied to prevent its slipping back. Hundreds 

alight at this little station on the side-hill for the Pine Hill village sec- 
tion down in the narrow valley. This is one of the most picturesque 
and delightful villages in the mountains. Everybody is pleased with 
Pine Hill. The many buildings are pretty in design, and all are neatly 
painted. Many are added every year. There are numerous hotels and 
boarding houses, among the largest of which are the Guigou, Rip Van 
'Winkle, Brewerton, Cornish and Hotel Ulster. The summer cottage 
of the late Rev. Dr. Howard Crosby, and many others of note, are 
situated in this locality, the first being on Birch Creek, one of the 
sources of the Esopus Creek. The village has all needed appliances 
and conveniences for a pleasant summer abode. 

Again the brakes are released and the engine plunges boldly in for 
the final climb. It is only a mile to the Summit now, but there is 226 
feet to rise. The engineers have lain one and one-half miles of track 
on which to do it, and the train curves sharply around the arcs of a 
double horseshoe like a serpent, only with far more violent exertion. 




L 




V. ',- 



^"l\ 



' ^ ^^ 



^ 




THE CATS KILL MOUNTAINS. 51 

,<^^ RAND HOTEL STATION is finally reached, and you are 
at the summit of the Ulster & Delaware track, 1886 feet 



above tide-water and forty-one miles from Rondout. 
The locomotive heaves a deep sigh of relief because its hardest work is 
over, and yet the run is only about half completed. This is a most 
important summer station. The Grand Hotel is less than half a mile 
up the hill by the road, and still shorter by the path and stairs which 
lead straight to the house. It is the great hotel of this region, being 
by far the largest, and it is palatial in all its appointments— a favorite 
resort of fashion, wealth and comfort. Many leave the train here 
for this noted resort, and for others located on the pretty Belle Ayr 
mountain slope across the valley. The view of mountain and valley 
from the broad piazzas of the Grand is superb indeed. Standing on 
the line which divides the counties of Ulster and Delaware, the house 
being partly in each county, you get a magnificent panorama of high 
mountains and deep valleys which is scarcely excelled except from the 
crest of the " Monka Hill " mountain just back of the hotel. There, 
after an easy climb, you are 2489, feet in the air. The view is wholly 
unobstructed on all sides and grand beyond description. Southward, 
in the sky, is old King Slide, only slightly overtopping its aspiring 
neighbors ; westward the farms and hamlets of Delaware, and far down 
-under the projecting rocks on which you stand is the green primeval 
wooded and far extending valley, and there is beauty all around. 
Strange to say, this crest is a broad, open meadow where an airy race 
track could easily be made. 

Westward, on the Belle Ayr slope, are the Grampian and Belle 
Ayr resorts, also several entertaining cottages. It is, indeed, a charm- 
ing cottage locality of 1500 mountain acres, with an elevation of 1900 
to 2500 feet. " Highmount " is the distinctive name of this slope and 
a portion of that below the Grand Hotel, where the Rossmore Hotel 
and several attractive cottages will be seen. Persons of reputable char- 
acter may secure lots and erect cottages here. There are many interest- 
ing drives radiating from this airy summit, and numerous gamey and 
romantic brooks and creeks, all of which add zest and sport to the 
ordinary attractions of summer mountain life. 



52 THE CATSKILI. MOUNTAIXS. 

But the train now moves gently down the hill for the Delaware 
region, the land of the dairy, the gilt-edged butter, the high-blooded 
cows ; the home of the sugar-maple and its luscious and aromatic pro- 
ducts. A grand rail-toboggan slide it is. The brakes are firmly set 
and all steam is shut off. You slide smoothly, but crookedly, down 
370 feet. 



r^^LEISCHMANN'S (Griffins Corners) is at the bottom of this 
slide. The place was born in iSc4, but it scarcely grew to 

liiir years of discretion until the railroad gave it nourishment, 

sixty-seven years later. Now it has many beautiful cottages, some of 
which belong to eminent men. INIany of them are elaborate and costly, 
and give the place a trim and attractive appearance. The Fleischmann's 
were the pioneer cottagers here. They did not, of course, invest a very 
large sum of money at first, as the two rough and stony farms which 
then covered most of the place were not held at very high figures. But 
they have since invested in the place heavily and shown great and com- 
mendable enterprise. This has attracted other men of means and liberal 
public spirit, which has now resulted in a most attractive collection of 
costlv summer homes. 



TaI RK\TLL11 four miles farther down the track, is another 
most important station. This is a great distributing 
centre: Margaretville, 1)2 miles; Andes, 12; Shaver- 
town, 15; Downsville, 26, and Furlough Lake, 7 miles distant. The 
latter is owned by George J. Gould, who has erected a handsome rustic 
summer cottage on its margin. Alder Lake, fourteen miles distant, is 
a new private game and fish preserve, which is owned by a club of 
Kingston City gentlemen, who bring their families here in summer. 
It containing about 560 acres of picturesque mountain land and a 
liberal supply of trout. 

You are now 1344 feet above tide, the lowest point reached by the 
railroad in Delaware County. The little stream near at hand is the 




THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. S3 

celebrated trout water known as Dry Brook. There is also the East 
Branch of the Delaware River here. These streams made the place 
conspicuous in history by causing a "Pumpkin Freshet," which 
occurred soon after the close of the revolution. Coming in the fall, 
before the crops were gathered, the little town was inundated with 
pumpkins. Near the village several very attractive summer cottages 
have been built recently, many of them by artists of note, who seem to 
fiiid special attraction here. Some of these may be seen on the left 
of the road to Margaretville, peering through the trees on the mountain 
slope. 

Margaretville is a delightful little village at the base of Mount 
Pakatakan, one mile below the confluence of Dry Brook and Delaware, 
East Branch, partly covering the ancient site of the Tuscarora Indian 
headquarters. Its rural scenic environment is charming, as is attested 
by the numerous studios dotted here and there. There are churches, 
stores, public water works, a weekly newspaper, a fair ground and race 
track, and several hotels, including the noted and popular Ackerly 
House, all within fifteen or twenty minutes' drive from the cars at Ark- 
ville. On leaving this station the train ascends again gradually, turn- 
sharply to the right and running along the East Branch in a general 
northeasterly direction, through a very pretty glade devoted mainly to 
dairying. In connection with Arkville, 'however, mention might be 
made of an artificial cave near there, which is always an object of 
interest to visitors. Its inner walls are rudely carved with strange 
hieroglyphics. 

OXBURY is the next important Delaware Station. It is 
eleven miles beyond Arkville, and the train has now sped 
rapidly over the comparatively level track where the East 
Branch, like a limpid thread of silver, winds in out, tempting one to 
cast an alluring hook for the wary prince of mountain "findom." 
You have halted briefly at 

KELLY'S CORNERS and HALCOTTVILLE on the way. neither 
of which is as yet prominent as a summer locality, though the latter is 
beginning to attract visitors. Roxbury is the scene of Jay Gould's 





54 THE CATSk'ILL MOIWTAIXS. 

early, boyhood. It is not far from the source of the east branch of the 
Delaware River. The settlement is now over a hundred years old, and 
it is rapidly growing in favor with summer visitors. It has churches, 
schools, stores and factories, and is somewhat noted for its large pro- 
duct of maple sugar, also butter and cheese. Many a family vacation 
is quietly and most enjoyably spent here. A weekly newspaper is 
printed in the hamlet, and there are a hundred other attractions in and 
about the quaint old strip of houses and its pleasant environment which 
are better enjoyed than to read of here. 



RAND GORGE is next, and six miles farther up the track. 

This brings you to the end of this northeasterly course. 

The train has been ascending gradually as it sped along 
through this lovely valley section, and is now 1570 feet above tide. The 
hamlet itself, formerly known as " Moresville, " is less than a mile away 
in the valley, and is afterward visible from the car window, very prettily- 
located. It was named after |ohn IMore, the first white settler who 
camped here in 1786. The approach to the station is rugged and 
beautiful, as you will have already noticed. Stages are taken here for 
Gilboa and Prattsville, three and six miles distant. Both are well 
known summer regions, and many always leave the train here for one 
of these three popular localities, which seemed almost a hundred miles 
from the river in the days of staging. 

PRATTSVILLE, an interior village of seven hundred inhabitants, 
is but five miles (less than one hour's ride by stage) from Grand Gorge 
station, and in traversing the distance the eye feasts upon scenery 
which is second to none in its grandeur and variety. On reaching 
your destination you feel that the journey has been one of pleasure and 
recreation rather than the usual arduous stage ride. Prattsville is an 
old historic town, its formation dating back nearly two centuries. 
However, the reader is not to infer from this that it still retains the 
mediaeval customs of its ancestors, but is to-day what is termed an 
"up-to-date" village. The summer presentment with its thickly 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



55 



m 


■■■lHHIIi^l^HB'> 


■ ^ ^.^^:^jfr".- , 


^ \ ^^,.:- ■-■■.■■. '"^^^1^' 


^^^ 


^^^^^ 



shaded and well-kept streets is a most gratifying feature, and from 
inspection and observation, the citizens, or summer residents, have 
cause to feel proud of this ideal resort. The patronage of Prattsville 
as a summer resort is increasing yearly, and now many beautifully 
located and commodious houses for the entertainment of guests are to 
be found within its limits. 

About one- 
half mile below 
the village the 
Devasego Falls 
are situated. 
These falls are 
considered a s 
one of the most 
attractive sights 
o f America's 
natural scenery 
and will repay 
anyone a visit. Pratt's Rocks, 
which have become famous 
through the artistic carvings 
on their surface under the 
direction of Col. Pratt, the 
founder of Prattsville, are 
within a short distance of the 
village and are visited annual- 
ly by hundreds of visitors 
and curio hunters. We ap- 
pend the following extract 
relative thereto from a copy 
of the Prattsville Advocate of 
July 8, 1848 : 

"The village of Pratts- 
ville is situated in a little val- 
ley through which meanders 
the small stream called the 
f)iatt'd iRoci;a. 




56 THE CATS KILL MOUNT ALMS. 

Schoharie-Kill, rising in the mountain range of the Catskills, thirteen 
miles only from the Hudson, and winding a devious course of seventy 
miles into the Mohawk. East of the village is a precipitous range of 
rocks, commonly known as High Rocks, which present marked surfaces 
to the eye of the stranger, and upon the surface of which are plainly to be 
seen the marks of the antediluvial currents. Upon the face of the 
rocks, which extend in immense masses into the mountain, Col. Pratt 
has caused to be cut in bas-relief views of his tannery, a bust of him- 
self, and other figures emblematic of his pursuits, and appropriate to 
the place. ***** 

The Delaware summit of the railroad is reached at 
SOUTH GILBOA after another six mile run. This is only forty- 
one feet lower than the Pine Hill summit in Ulster County. But the 
location is such, and the train has approached it so gradually, that you 
will scarcely realize it. There are several quiet boarding places in the 
vicinity of this station, and there is also a lake with boating facilities. 



^*^ TAMFORD is the next stop after a rapid run of three miles, 
and here is found one of the most charming villages in the 
entire range. Stamford has an elevation of i,8oo feet above 
the sea and is situated at the base of Mt. Utsayantha whose summit is 
1,500 feet higher. From a high tower erected on this mountain top 
reached by a short drive over a good road, one of the grandest and 
most extensive views in the Catskills is obtained. Twenty thousand 
square miles of territory, twenty-eight lordly peaks of the Catskills and 
portions of four states may be seen from this sightly crest. Stamford 
is known as a model village — a compliment, well-deserved by the 
thrift and enterprise of its inhabitants. The streets are bordered by 
well-kept lawns and overarched by majestic maples. Shaded by these 
trees are the stone sidewalks, and back of them are the fine summer 
hotels and cottages, the absence of fences giving the effect of a park. 
The situation of the village overlooking the open valley which receives 
the head waters of the Delaware River, is a charming one. Towering 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 57 

peaks rise abruptly and grandly on all sides, adding the charm of 
mountain scenery to all the attractions of an enterprising village. The 
roads in this vicinity are excellent and driving is a popular form of 
amusement. Every turn reveals picturesque glens and hollows and 
the roads from Stamford radiate to various points of interest. This 
region forms a water-shed between three river basins. One mile east 
is Bear Creek which empties into the Schoharie and a fifteen minutes' 
walk west of the village will bring the tourist to the source of streams 
which are tributary to the Susquehanna. Thus within the radius of a 
mile one may drink from the head waters of three great rivers. 

Nature has indeed been lavish in her gifts and the enterprise of man 
has provided hostelries which offer comfort and luxury among these 
everlasting hills when heat and humidity make urban life oppressive. 

The history of Stamford is replete with interest, the town having 
been settled by people from Stamford, Conn., from which the place 
took its name. Utsayantha was the name of a beautiful Indian 
maiden, and forest tradition gives the story of her tragic fate with that 
of her babe and white husband. One hundred years ago a battle was 
fought a short distance from the village between the patriots and the 
Tories and Indians. In 1884 Stamford contained only one summer 
hotel. Now there are many fine large houses with accommodations 
for fifteen hundred or two thousand guests. Dr. S. E. Churchill was 
the pioneer summer hotel proprietor and Churchill Hall the first house 
erected. Since that time the tide of travel to Stamford has steadily 
increased. Large investments of capital in hotels with first-class 
appointments have been made and a number of fine cottages erected. 
No more charming place can be found for summer cottage life. The 
numerous sites in which the village abounds and the precaution of the 
citizens in constructing a complete and modern system of sewerage 
gives it unrivaled advantages from a sanitary standpoint. The village 
also contains five thriving churches, a Union Free School and Semi- 
nary, water works, electric lights, telephones; a public library, national 
bank, two weekly newspapers, and fine athletic grounds. The latter 
contains a track for bicycle riding and driving, and grounds for base 
ball and tennis. Adjacent to the village are park-like fields with pleas- 
ant drives and shaded strolls. 







StamforS-'Cbc Xafec an& flBt. Utsatautba. 




THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 59 

OBART is four miles farther down the Delaware River. 
The run from Stamford to Hobart along the crooked river 
is full of interest. The stream bends so often and so 
abruptly that it is said, standing at a certain point, one can shoot an 
arrow that will cross it four times. Hobart is a pretty little village with 
a history antedating the Revolution. The old name was " Waterville," 
there being a fine falls and water power there. The present name was 
finally settled upon at the suggestion of Rev. Philander Chase, the old 
church rector, and subsequently Bishop of Ohio. There are several 
churches and numerous pleasant hotels and boarding houses, and the 
number of summer visitors is rapidly increasing each season. It is 
seventy-eight miles from Rondout and 1614 feet above it. 

The running of parlor cars through to this point proved a great 
convenience to Delaware visitors. From Philadelphia and New York 
to Stamford and Hobart without change, in a luxurious railway coach, 
was, indeed, a very gratifying feature to many travelers. 

OUTH KORTRIGHT is the next station, four miles down 
the river. This town was settled at an early period by 
sturdy Scotch and Irish people, who had their full share of 
Indian depredations and troubles. The little hamlet is not devoid of 
interest, but has been patiently awaiting the advent of the railroad. It 
is the center of a rich dairy district, and promises to become popular 
with summer visitors. 

LOOMVILLE, about five miles farther down the crooked 
siream, is the end of this charming inland railway journey. 
It is about eight miles from Delhi, which may be reached 

by stage after an interesting drive, and it is a thriving little diary village 

in a pretty locality. 






Ikaatcvskill jfalls. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 61 



Ufte RarrocjD ©Jauge ©iNsix^ioa. 



Through the Stony Clove and Over the Kaaterskill Railro^ 




li 



^HE Stony Clove Notch has long been regarded as one of the 
great scenic attractions of the Catskills. It is one of the 
wildest and most beautiful mountain passes on the conti- 
nent, and a page might well be devoted in the effort to describe it. But 
for this great cleavage of the towering crags the old Greene County sec- 
tion of the mountains could never have developed into the very popular 
and populous summer region that it is to-day, simply because of its 
comparative inaccessibility. Of course " Old Rip " never dreamed of 
a railroad through "The Notch," but he was not liberally endowed with 
a prophetic and lively imagination. The railway was built about twelve 
years ago, and its daily trains have been kept pretty busy ever since. 
This Stony Clove road and the subsequent construction of the Kaaters- 
kill, with which it connects, completed the all-rail circuit of the range, 
and to-day this is the only comfortable and rapid route to this section 
of the Catskills. 

Beginning on the Ulster Sa Delaware line at Phoenicia, the Stony 
Clove road winds through the famous gorge a little over fourteen miles 
and terminates at Hunter. The track is narrow gauge and crooked, 
vertically as well as laterally. Much of the grade is heavy, reaching 
187 feet per mile at one point. The summit of the track in the Notch 
is 2071 feet above tide, and to reach it the engine must climb 1273 
feet in ten miles, but the lusty little locomotives accomplish it at a good 
rate of speed. It is a charming ride amid the varied beauties of this 
primeval bit of Nature, 



62 THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 

CHICHESTER'S is the first stop, a great chair manufacturing 
region with a collection of small dwellings down in the valley. The 
place was named after the Chichester family, which originally came 
from Wales. 

LANESVILLE is next, and it is a favorite boarding section with 
many who seek to avoid the crowd. There are several modest and 
comfortable resorts open to visitors. 

EDGEWOOD is the next station, eight miles from the start. 
Here is another noisy chair stock factory, with a few private boarding 
houses near at hand. Until this station is reached the track lies 
along the eastern slope of the deep valley. Far below, running 
beside and across the winding old wagon road, flows the Stony Clove 
Creek, with its cascades and mills here and there, and a little church, 
a school or a cottage at intervals along its banks. On either side are 
towering mountains with craggy crests far up in the sky. 

Looking back from the train you see nothing but mountains, and 
vou can neither discern nor imagine where you came through. A 
charming variety of wild flowers, ferns, trailing vines and shrubbery 
fringe the wayside, and fill the air with wildwood fragrance. Indeed, 
this whole mountain region abounds with interest to the lover of 
plants and wild flowers. The mountain laurel {kabjiia lati/olia) is 
quite at home here, and may be found in abundance and in great 
beauty, nearly all summer in bloom, at first in the valleys and on ihe 
lower slopes and later on the mountain tops. Then there are clematis, 
ferns, honeysuckles, eupatorium, saracenias, Indian pipe, daisies and 
an endless variety or other species of plants. 

Pulling out and up from Edgewood the valley becomes very 
narrow. This is the "Notch," and there is scant space in the bottom 
for the track and the wagon road. Indeed, the old rocky, rooty road 
has never yet become quite reconciled to the iron rails there, and it 
will be seen to dispute their right of way vigorously-for a short distance. 
For a thousand feet and more on each side of the tram the hills go 
up almost vertically, and you must look straight up to see the narrow 
strip of sky between. It is cold here, and wraps and overcoats are 
always needed. The engineer pulls the whistle, rings the bell, and 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 63 

you listen to the echoes which seem never-ending. A gradual descent 
of two miles now brings you to. 

KAATERSKILL JUNCTION. Then another two miles on a 
sharp curve to the left is the famous old village of 

HUNTER. This is the northern terminus of the Stony Clove 
rails, and an extremely popular summer region. It is a pretty mount- 
ain village, vwith many picturesque attractions. There are several 
large and attractive hotels. Nearly 2000 visitors can be entertained 
in this locality, and about as many more at Lexington, Hensonville, 
Windham and Jewett Heights, which are reached by stage from this 
point. There are churches, factories, stores and a weekly newspaper. 
The famous mountain peaks, "Colonel's Chair" and Hunter Mount- 
ain, the second highest in the range — the former 3165 feet, the latter 
4038 feet above tide — are just across the Schoharie Creek, which 
tiows through the village. Either may be reached by a good mount- 
ain path. There are many charming drives over good roads, and 
innumerable romantic paths which radiate from Hunter. 

But returning to Kaaterskill Junction, let us take the mount- 
ain train on that road for about nine miles, and glance briefly at 
Tannersvillei Haines' Corners, Laurel House, Kaaterskill and the old 
Catskill Mountain House. These are all historic summer boarding 
sections, concerning which all other Catskill guide-books have spoken 
in detail, contenting themselves with only a few brief statements 
regarding the various other portions of the range. The railway makes 
all these places easily accessible, and brings many thousands to and 
fro every summer. 

TANNERSVILLE is the first stop on the Kaaterskill Railroad, 
and it is one of the liveliest stations in the mountains. This is among 
the oldest and most popular summer boarding sections in the range, 
and is still increasing in favor, especially with cottagers. Over 2000 
visitors can be entertained here at once by the numerous houses, and 
there are also hundreds of cottage residents. Various social and other 
clubs and associations have been attracted here of late years, having 
purchased large tracts of mountain land, which are being converted 
into parks with fine roads and numerous handsome summer dwell- 



64 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



ings. The Elka Park Association is among these, and is composed 
of New York Liederkranz members and other leaders in German 
mercantile and social circles in New York. Several hundred acres of 
the Spruce Top slope is owned by the club, near the source of the 
Schoharie and about two miles from the Tannersville Station, A large 
club house and several attractive cottages have already been built, 
several new cottages having been erected since last season. 



^ 




?;.yjfeL 



Elh.i a>ail; Club Ujoue 



:M^ 



The elevated plateau around Tannersville seems to be the favora- 
ble field for the development of cottage-clubs. One of the recent addi- 
tions to the cottage-clubs is "Schoharie Manor." which has been 
started by the Schoharie Manor Association in October last. The 
Association has bought 300 acres adjacent to Elka Park. The origi- 
nator of Elk Park, Mr. Paul Goepel, of New York City, is also the 
founder of this new club. The name is taken from the Schoharie river, 
the head-waters of which flow past the land of the Association. Mr. 
Goepel has organized the Association and is working up the profes- 
sional circles so as to induce families of education and refinement to 
settle on the land of the Association. 



THE CATS KILL MOUNTAINS. 



65 



An elegant club house in Colonial style is now being built, which 
has been named "Schoharie Mansion." This will be opened June 
1 5th. As will be seen from the cut of the Mansion, it will be quite an 
addition to the club houses of this section and may lead to a revival of 
the refined Colonial style of architecture in this part of the Catskills. 
As soon as the necessary surveys are prepared, the Association will 
place its land on the market for cottage settlement. 





£5?^if^^^---\.^jlrL.Tfe,^;-'»^i^*i 



The Onteora Park, directly across the valley north of the station, 
about one and a half miles distant, is also a most attractive mountain 
preserve. It is on a commanding height, from which a beautiful view 
is obtained. "The Bear and Fox Inn" is the general club house, and 
there are many picturesque private cottages owned by leading persons 
of wealth. 

Tannersville is also well supplied with hotels, the largest of which 
being " Roggen's," " Mulford,'" " Blythewood," "Cold Spring House. " 
"The Oriental," "The La Villa," " The Arlington " and "The Wams- 
ley." But there are a host of others all about, and the pretty slopes are 
dotted here and there by the cottages of prominent New York people, 
who abide here with their families nearly five months in the year, and 
journey to and from business — only four hours by rail. There is a 
small lake and a new driving park which may be mentioned among the 
added attractions. 



66 



THE CATS KILL MOUNTAINS. 



HAIXES' CORNERS is the next station where the train pulls up. 
It is another favorite old summer region. You are now at the noted 
Haines" Falls, at the head of the famous Kaaterskill Clove, and at a 
,!j;eneral elevation of about 2500 feet above the river. For beauty of 
situation this place is unexcelled. The view down the great canon to 
the Hudson River is grand beyond description, and the surrounding 
region is full of natural charm. There is a full quota of hotels and 
boarding houses, with many private cottages, and the place is always 
full of social life. Haines' Falls makes a beautiful cataract 160 feet in 
height, and it forms a conspicuous object in the landscape of that 
region, as seen from distant points. "Twilight Park" is located near 
at hand on a most enchanting slope, from which Mount Lincoln 
towers grandly skyward 3664 feet. This is an outgrowth from the New 
York Twilight Club and under its control. The objects'are summer 
rest for families, with grass for carpet, moss for rugs, home without 



^^ 




t pari!. 



THE CATS KILL MOUNTAINS. 67 

housekeeping cares, no fashion, no Mrs. Grundy. There are two large 
and unique club houses and over thirty most attractive cottages, with a 
fine system of roads. The Park is in full view from the train as it 
leaves Haines' Corners, and it appears in handsome contrast with the 
unrivaled natural charms of the mountain setting. Several attractive 
cottages have been built since last season and others are projected. 
A summer home in Twilight Park means solid, rustic comfort. 

Now as the train moves onward, the traveler will need to be alert 
in order to catch even a glimpse of the many objects of interest along 
the way. 

LAUREL HOUSE Station is only two miles beyond ; but just 
before reaching it, through the trees on the right, will be seen the far- 
famed and beautiful Kaaterskill Falls, which has inspired the pens and 
brushes of authors and artists for a century and more, and continues to 
enchant every visitor. The new-old Laurel Plouse stands at the head 
of this beautiful gorge into which the silvery sheen of sparkling water 
tumbles hundreds of feet over a solid amphitheatre of shelving rock. 
It is the second oldest resort in the range, with more than fifty years 
of hallowed associations. But the genial old landlord sleeps, and new 
faces now bestow the greeting smile. The house is only a few rods 
from the station, large and well appointed. Steps lead from it down 
to the bottom of the magnificent gorge, where one can stand under the 
projecting rocks and behind the falling water, and be enraptured with 
the beauty and novelty of the scene. But the return climb is suffi- 
ciently arduous to restore proper tranquility, and needs good lungs and 
strength. 

The final mile of this road brings us to the eastern end of the 
mountain railway system, the terminus being known as 

KAATERSKILL STATION— This is less than a mile from the 
eastern or river face of the Catskill range. You have' thus made a cir- 
cuit of the mountains by rail, amid the most varied and beautiful scen- 
ery, reaching at this station the highest elevation attained by any rail- 
road in New York State, viz., 2145 feet above tide. 

Another culminating feature of even greater importance presented 
here is the largest mountain hotel in the range or in the world — the 
Hotel Kaaterskill. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 69 

From the margin of the beautiful Kaaterskill Lake on which the 
little station stands, carriages make prompt and speedy connection with 
the brilliant resort which looms up boldly from the forest on the moun- 
tain, half a mile upward. The roads are excellent and the walk is short 
and delightful. The entire mountain has been transformed into a 
park, with twenty miles of charming drives and wild paths without end. 

And finally, here also, less than half a mile by a lovely road that 
fringes and passes between Kaaterskill and North Lakes, the famous 
old Catskill Mountain House at "Pine Orchard," is reached. This 
grand old landmark and pioneer summer mountain hotel now opens 
for its seventy-first consecutive season. 





^TME COP^ECTI 



ARKVILLE. — Daily, except Sunday, throughout the year: For Margarelville, 2 
miles, fare 15 cts.; Clark's Factory, 5 miles, fare 50 cts.; Andes, 12 miles, fare 
$1.00 ; Lake Delaware, 20 miles, fare $1.50 , Delhi, 26 miles, fare $1.50. 

Daily, except Sunday, throughout the year : For Lumberville, 8 miles, fare 
50 cts. ; Union Grove, 12 miles, fare 75 cts.; Shavertown, 15 miles, fare $1.00 ; 
Pepacton, 19 miles, fare $1.25 ; Downsville, 26 miles, fare Si. 50. 

BIG INDIAN. — Daily, except Sunday, during summer months only : ForOliverca, 

2 1-2 miles, fare 25 cts,; Slide Mountain P. O., 5 miles, fare 50 cts.; Winnisook 
Lodge, S 1-2 miles, fare 75 cts.; Branch, 12 miles, fare $1.00 ; Frost Valley, 15 
miles, fare SI. 00 ; Claryville, 22 miles, fare $1.25. 

BLOOMVILLE.— Daily, except Sunday, throughout the year: For Delhi. S 

miles, fare 75 cts. ; Bovina Centre, 6 miles, fare 50 cts. 

Delhi stage also connects with morning train from Rondout on Sundays. 
GRAND GORGE.— Daily, except Sunday, throughout the year : For Prattsvilk. 

6 miles, fare 50 cts.; Gilboa, 4 1-2 miles, fare 40 cts. 
HUNTER. — For Lexington, 9 miles, fare 75 cts.; Ilensonville, 7 miles, fare ~-- 

cts.; Windham, 9 miles, fare $1.00 : Jewett, 9 miles, fare Si.oo. 
SHANDAKEN. — Daily, except Sunday, throughout the year: For Buishnellvilk. 

3 miles, fare. 35 cts.; Westkill, 7 miles, fare 75 cts.; Lexington, 11 miles, fa 1^ 
Si.oo. 

STAMFORD.— Daily, except Sunday, throughout the year: For HarpersficKl 

Centre, 4 1-2 miles, fare 50 cts.; Davenport, 14 miles, fare. Si.oo ; Oneonta, 27 

miles, fare S2.0C. 
Daily, except Sunday, throughout the year : For Jefferson, 7 miles, fare 50 cts. ; 

Sammit, Schoharie County, 14 miles, fare Si. 25 ; Richmondville, 18 mile.s, fare 

Si. 50. 
WEST HURLEY. — During the summer months only: For Mead's Mountaii. 

House, 8 miles, fare Si-oo ; Overlook Mountain House, 9 miles, fare Sl-SO. 
Daily, except Sunday, throughout the year : For Woodstock, 5 miles, fare 5c 

cts.; Bearsville, 7 miles, fare 60 cts.; Lake Hill. 10 miles, fare 75 cents. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 71 



¥1^0 Gpeat glide [Doaohaio. 



w 



^^HIS crowning crag of the Catskills is the grandest and most 
interesting of the entire group, and it well deserves all the 
increased public notice which the past year or two has 



brought. It is directly south from Shandaken, about seven and a half 
miles air line. The proper place to leave the train for this mountain, 
however, is Big Indian. From this station the distance to its airy crest 
by carriage road and foot-path is about ten and a half miles. Eight 
miles of the way is a fair mountain road through the picturesque Big 
Indian Valley, and across the dividing ridge to the west branch of the 
Neversink. 

Here from the base of the mountain an easy and most interesting 
trail leads one to the summit. There are other routes of approach, 
but this is the shortest, easiest and best. A favorite plan with many is 
to stop at ' ' Butcher's " Panther Mountain House for the night, five miles 
from Big Indian ; then, in the morning, drive to the base of the 
mountain, about ninety minutes, thence on foot to the top, ninety 
minutes more, unless one spends too much time in admiration and 
investigation on the way. Those in need of a guide on this trip will 
find in J. W. Dutcher much information and assistance. He is a noted 
character in that region, who has assumed a quasi proprietorship of 
this monarch of the Catskills — a sort of lessee of Nature, as it were — 
having blazed an excellent path to the summit and erected an observ- 
atory there. Some choose to spend the night on this summit, which 
is indeed a decision fraught with varied possibilities, for which ample 
preparation in advance is peculiarly judicious. But the sublime exper- 
ience fully warrants the risk of encountering the terrible atmospheric 
conflicts that at times culminate there. Plenty of food and an abund- 
ance of warm clothing and blankets should be provided. A convenient 
ledge of rocks will be found, under which a small party can secure shelter. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 73 

The view from this mountain transcends that of any other in the 
range, it being nearly 200 feet above the highest. Here the lordly 
Hudson, like a broad silver ribbon, with an occasional fold hidden 
from view, is seen for about fifty miles, extending from the gate of the 
Highlands to near Hudson. The cities of Po'keepsie and Kingston, 
and numerous villages in New York and Connecticut are in sight. 
The Housatonic River also shimmers faintly far to the east, and por- 
tions of six different States can be ideniified. In the sublime sweep of 
vision from the observatory are streams, lakes, valleys, farms, factories, 
church spires, railroads and mountains piled on mountains. To greet 
the rising sun from this crest on a clear morning, and watch again as it 
sinks over the rugged rim of mountains away to the west, is an exper- 
ience that no description can portray or anticipate A recent visitor 
was delighted with a most novel effect presented by the receding sun 
there on a remarkably clear afternoon. He says the huge lengthening 
shadow of the giant mountain, as it reached out toward the river, 
finally extended over the city of Kingston, and he plainly saw the whole 
city lying in the gloom of Slide Mountain. This is twelve or fourteen 
miles away through the air, and it is thus evident that the familiar 
characterization of Kingston as being "In the shadow of theCatskills," 
is not merely figurative, but real. 

A large portion of this mountain, including the crest, belongs to 
the State. The spruce trees on and near the top are very thickly 
branched, so that one can recline upon their tops with ease. An excel- 
lent spring of water has been found near the crest. The slide, from 
which the mountain is named, is alluded to elsewhere in this book. 

While at the beginning of the ascending path at the western base 
of Slide, might well have been noted the "Winnisook Lodge." This 
is a woodland preserve owned by a club of citizens of Kingston City. 
The spot is wildly picturesque, and is a delightful place to spend the 
summer. About two miles beyond this, on the west branch of the 
Neversink, is a State Deer Park, which covers a portion of the 80,000 
acres of the State domain in the Catskills. It contains a fine herd of 
deer, and some other wild animals. 



THE ULSTER & DEL^WaHE 1 1 

Has the Best and Most Complete Service 

T@ TGIE ^/^TMILLX 



.CC> /=S:. 'Ci, 



AA'D /S THE ONLY LINE RUNNING 



Tl^roUgh^ Cars 

From NEK yORK and PHILPELPHltl 



Without Change. 



Two Solid Fast Trains 

Daily (except Sunday) from New York, via West Shore Railroad, with Ijutt'ct 
Drawing Room Service. 

A Special Week-Day Train, 

With Drawing- Room Service, connecting with Steamers of the Hudson River Dav 
Line and N. Y. C. & II. R. R. 

A Morning Train 

Every day, conneclyig with Night Boats of Romer & Treniper Line, and Steamer 
.Mary Powell. 

A Special Half-Holiday Train, 

Via \Vesl Shore Railroad, witliout change, leaving New York every Saturday. 

A Special Saturday Night Train, 

Leaving Rondout on arrival of Steamer W. F. Romer, which leaves New York ,\; 
one o'clock r. M. 

ALSO CLOSE CONNECTION WITH FAST TRAINS ON THE 
N. Y. C. & H. R. R. R. 



The only THROUGH SLEEPING CAR SERVICE with 
out change to New York, every Sunday Night. 



THE CATS KILL MOUNTAINS. 75 



j^koLit (gpoO"!^ ¥pouL 



Sing sweet, O birds o' April ! Sing sweet o'er hill and plain 
While the wonderin' world is tangled in the sunlight an' the rain ! 
We ain't a pesterin' any one, jes' livin' at our ease, 
A-huntin' when we want to, an' fishin' when we please ! " 



w 



^HE speckled brook trout is a princely member of the finny 
realm. It dwells only in clear, running, crystal water. 
The coolest, purest and best is never too good for trout; 
and to find these elements is a part of its instinct. These high con- 
ditions of habitat rarely exist in combination more happily than is 
found in the Catskills. The mountains and valleys are profusely 
threaded with these lovely brooks, and it is an ideal region for trout, 
as thousands of enthusiastic fishermen will bear graphic testimony. 
There is ample trout water abounding with fish where the angler may 
cast his fly without molestation, and with such success as his knowledge, 
skill and patience may warrant. This is especially true of the 
Ulster & Delaware section of the mountains, which has long been 
noted for its excellent fishing. Who has not heard of the Never- 
sink trout streams, Biscuit Brook, the head of the Rondout, the 
east and west branches of the Delaware, the Beaverkill, Dry Brook, 
Bushkill, Watson Hollow Brook, Emory Brook, Stony Clove 
Creek, Mink Hollow Brook, Esopus Creek and scores of other 
finny streams which entice so many anglers here every year.' At 
the opening of the trout season, the Ulster & Delaware trains are 
loaded with fishermen, rods, bait and all manner of paraphernalia 
known to modern piscatorial art. Plenty of small hotels are to be 
found where good food and comfortable beds can be had, unless one 
prefers to camp along the streams. In that case a good tight tent with 
proper fititings is needed, also plenty of warm clothing and blankets, 
for the mountain rains at this season are frequent and exceedingly wet. 
Of course this camping method implies an abundance of plain, 
substantial food in the hampers, unless the angler is content with 



76 THE CAT SKILL MOCNTALWS. 

trout, which, when cooked and served in the woods fresh from the 
stream, is food for a king. The flesh of this fish is very delicate, and 
it cannot well be preserved for any length of time after the fish is 
killed. Successful trout fishing is the acme of the angler's ambition. 
No bungling fisherman can catch the speckled brook trout. The fish 
is keen-witted and gamey, and can only- be captured by preliminary 
deception and subsequent battle, with the odds all against the finny 
combatant. If the boys who have grown up along these streams at 
times surprise and disgust the theoretical city fisherman by catching 
more trout than he does, with all his most approved and complicated 
outfit, it is simply because the boy knows better how to fish. He is 
familiar with the habits of trout, knows how to deceive them with the 
least fuss and commotion, and never gets excited. Thus it will often 
be easier for the man with gorgeous scientific outfit to buy fish of the 
barefooted mountain lad than to catch them, even though he may 
have come hundreds of miles to enjoy the sport of landing the fish by his 
own skill and devices. And yet the eflfort to do this is not devoid of 
sport, and is sure to be full of exercise. Many will recall the follow- 
ing fish story of Washington Irving: 

" I recollect that after toiling and watching and creeping about 
for the greater part of a day, with scarcely any success, in spite of all 
our admirable apparatus, a lubberly country urchin came down from 
the hills with a rod made from the branch of a tree, a few yards of 
twine, and, as heaven shall help me, I believe .a crooked pin for a hook, 
baited with a vile earth-worm, and in half an hour caught more fish 
than we had nibbles throughout the day." Many an amateur can relate 
a similar experience. It is therefore unjust to condemn a stream and 
say there is no trout in it, simply because a bungling fisherman cannot 
catch any there. Trout are supremely happy in very little water, and 
big beauties love to disport in tiny brooklets, where by the displace- 
ment of their own bodies there is often barely room to float. They 
lurk in rocky, pebbly bottoms, and are well at home among mossy 
roots and margins. If a ray of sunlight filters through the over-hang- 
ing foliage and strikes some quiet pool, Mr. Speckle darts eagerly for 
it in the hope of securing some choice winged morsel, or basking in 
the sunlight. 



SEASON OF 1895 OPENS JUNE 27TH. TRANSIENT RATE, $4.50 PER DAY. 
SPECIAL RATES FOR THE SEASON. 

The New Grand Hotel 

S. J. COfSpLL, flanager, Saniniit (Mountain P. 0., {(. y. 

Elevaiioti, 2^oo Feet. Pure Spring Water. No Fogs. Perfect Sewerage. Pure, Dry 
Air. A^o Malaria. No Mosquitoes. 

FOUR AND ONE-HALF HOURS FROM NEW YORK. 

Only Hotel on Mountain Top Reached by Broad Gauge Railroad 
Direct to Grounds. No Transfers. 

TEMPERATURE even and from 15° to 20° cooler than in New York or Philadelphia. 
Resident Physician and Pharmacy in Hotel ; also Post Office, Telegraph Office, News 
Stands, etc. Three Concerts daily. The Hotel has a frontage of 675 feet ; broad 
piazzas extend along front of main building. Onlv hotel on mountain top with direct 
access by rail. Parlor Cars direct to Hotel Grounds from New York or Philadelphia 
without change. 




^Tic C!5vcirtcst ^citltlx %t5axt in the ©atsTiltls. 

T\\Q /Aost Poplilar Hotel ir\ tl:\is FaiT\oUs aqd Delightful Regior\. 1 1 ■: 

i i I I I I j Exceller\t Trout Fisl\irig, Beautiful Drives ar\d Walks. 

Personal applications may be made in New York to Mr. S. J. Cornell, at Hotel 
Marlborough, Broadway and 36th Street, and after June 27th to Summit Mt. 
P. O., Ulster Co., N. Y. 

Open until late in September. 



& S. J. CORNELL, Proprietors. 



STAMFORD, N. Y. 

Aost Delightful Locatior\ ir\ tl\e Catskills. 

Oper\ th^roUgh^ Aay ar\d Jur^e. Capacity 300. 

Exter\sive Irriproverr^erxts for Seasori of '95 

Through Trains with Drawing Room Cars from Philadelphia 

and New York direct to Hotel Grounds. Only 5 1-2 Hours 

from New York via West Shore and U. & D. R. R. 




/P^^^^^e -^^ 



-«!^EA I^-*V I E: W-^ e M \J I^ H I L Ir^H A L E?^- 

SHURCHILL HALL is one of the largest and most recently built Summer Hotels 
in the Catskills. The interior of main building has been extensively improved 
since 1894, furnishing superadded comforts for guests. The House contains 
Music Hall, Lil)rary and Reading Room and is complete in all its appointments. Five 
hundred feet of front piazza ; many rooms with private baths attached. Sanitary 
arrangements perfect. 

Stamford is widely known for its unique location at the head waters of three rivers, 
its healthful and invigorating climate, complete system of sewerage and other attractive 
features. 

Tourists will find this the starting point for the trip to Cooperstown and Richfield 
Springs through the beautiful Charlotte Valley. By this route the 18 mile drive to 
Davenport Center, terminus of Cooperstown R. R., can be taken with ease and enjoy- 
ment. Conveyances are furnished "at Churchill Hall on arrival of trains, or in the cool 
i)f morning after a comfortable night's rest; and connection made with same trains as via 
Bloomville. 

Personal application may be made in New York in May and June to Mr. E. R. 
Tenkins, Fifth Avenue Hotel. Ful)lished notice of dates will appear in Daily Tribune. 
For illustrated circular and information address. 



S. E.CHURCHILL, M.D., 

Stamford, N. Y. 







'^.s 












-% 



M: 




ui.]-.v>A.N I \.\ UH-aieci nn Seminary Heights, an elevation com- 
l manding a tine view of the Village, Utsayantha Mountain and 



LNijLLSIDLr 

Delaware Valley for twenty miles. Within five minutes' walk of station, post office and 
churches. The house is newly built, well heated, furnished with electric lights and ali 
modern improvements, including baths, closets, hot and cold water on each floor, 125 feet 
of wide veranda, large lawn, croquet and lawn tennis. Accommodations for 35. Cuisine 
of the best. Ho Hebrews desired. Send for circular. 

E. O. COVEL, 

Stamford, N. Y. 





HIMEB. >. Y. 



^^■^^mw 



THIS house is beautifullv situated in the most picturesque part of the Catskills on a ri.se of 
ground overlooking the village of Hunter— the terminus of the Stony Clove & Catskill 
iiountain Railroad. Accommodations for 40 gviests.' Elevation 1674 feet. 

Mr. M. E. WOODWORTH, 

Hunter, N. Y. 
80 



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ACKERLY HOUSE AND PARK-Open all the year. This hourie is located in the 
beautiful village of Margaretville, Delaware Countj', N. Y., in the western part of the 
Catskill Mountains, nine miles from Grand Hotel Station, Summit Mountain, and 4q 
miles from Kingston-on-the-Hudson. The house is lighted with gas, and is supplied 
with pure spring water on every floor and in many of the rooms. Accomodates 150. 
Terms $8 to $15 per week. Livery attached. For circulars, etc., please address 

Thomas Hill, Jr., Prop., Margaretville, Delaware Co., N. Y. 



BOWLING. 



-^^^:^^^^^f^^^ 



THE WEST END ALLEYS, at Stamford, N. Y., 
consisting of four well equipped, regulation alleys. 
Are the finest in the Catskills. Service first-class. 



J. K. GRANT, 

PROPRIETOR 




sx3vr3F»so3\r T:E:mi..A.o:E:, - - Stamford, n. y. 

House new witli all modern improvements. Unobstructed view Elevation z.cko feet. 
Terms according to location of room and length of stay. For circular and farther infor- 
mation, address as above. 



MYERS' HOUSE. 



ELEVATION 1700 FEET. 



HUNTER, N. Y. 



HOUSE pleasantly located on Main Street, within a few minutes 
walk of Post and Telegraph Offices and Churches. Rooms are 
exceptionally large and well furnished. Views of Mouniains and 
Valleys unobstructed. Good fishing and hunting in season. 
All conveniences which tend to make a Summer sojourn pleasant. 
Accommodations for 50. Terms, $8 to $12 per week. Send for 
circular. 

E. R. MYERS, Proprietor. 




fhe fladison ^^^ 



nnnodations for fifty. Terms, $io to $15, according to rooms. Livery connected 
with house. All modern improvements. A. C. VAN DYKE, Proprietor, 

Stamford, N .Y. 



™flc mm mTimt 

Grand Gorge, N. Y. 

Accommodations for Fof(rY. Eley/tion 1575 feet. 



TERMS from $6 to $io per week. The house has shade 
and a beautiful lawn furnishing ample room for base 
ball, tennis, or any of the popular out door games. 
The house is situated within two minutes' walk of the 
post office, telegraph and churches, and within one-half- 
mile of Grand Gorge station on the Ulster & Delaware 
Railroad, from which guests will be carried free of charge. 
No Hebrews desired. For further particulars address, 



J. n. CROINK, Grand Gorge, N. Y. 




GREYCOURT INN, 



STAMFORD, K, 'i 



Accomodation, 70. Terms, $10 and upward, according to rooms. 

S. I. BROWN, Proprietor and Owner. 



Ia jjren^vjlla. 



IROIITOT, K T< 



-^^i^^^^H^^ 



This favorite Summer House has accommodations for 40 guests, and is located in 
the lovely village of Roxbury, Delaware County, N. Y., in the heart of the Catskills, 59 
miles from Kingston-on-the-Hudson. The vicinity abounds in picturesque scenery, 
beautiful drives and walks, and is unsurpassed as a health giving resort. 

THE ELEVATION IS 1500 FEET ABOVE TIDEWATER. 

Ample accommodations and reasonable charges for boarding horses and care of 
carriages ; also saddle horses for the use of the guests. 



"Ccrms : $lorper wecft cacb for two persons occupvjing one room. 
$l0.to $l5.eacb for sinijle rooms 



G. W. LAUREN, Roxbury, Del. Co., N. Y. 



Mt^w-m 



FRED. IM. TINGLEY, Proprietor. 




STAnPORD, DELAWARE COUNTY, H. Y. 



Elevaiion, 2,000 Feet. 



AcconiDiodations for 40 Giu'sls. 



The Delaware House is pleasantly situated on 
Main Street, within a short walk from Post Office, 
Depot, Bank and Churches. The house has spacious 
verandas, is heated by steam, lighted by electricity, 
and has all modern improvements. The tables will be 
supplied with an abundance of fresh eggs, butter, milk, 
poultry, fruits, vegetables, etc., direct from the farm. 

No pains will be spared to make it a first-class 
summer home. 

Free 'bus to and from all trains 

Terms, $2.25 per day, $8.00 to $12.00 per week. 
Special rates to families. 



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c. c. 



STAMFORD, N. Y. 

CANFIELD, Proprietor. 




VIYcHiS is an en- 
?A3 tirely New 
House, located 
very pleasantly 
on an elevated 
portion of the 
Village. It is an 
up-to-date 
building with 
the modern im- 
provements, 
such as bath 
and toilet 
rooms on each 
floor,sewer con- 
nections, heat- 
ed by hot air. 
The rooms are 
large and com- 
fortable. Broad 
verandas. The 
location is con- 
venient to post- 
office, depot, ex- 
press and tele- 
graph offices. 

We ask an in- 
vestigation o f 
the merits of 
this House, 
knowing that it 
would please 
you. Terms 
and other infor- 
mation on ap- 
plication to the 
proprietor. Liv- 
eiy attached. 
C. C. C.\XFIELD, 
Stamford, 
New York. 



PHCENICIA, Ulster Co., N. Y. 

Close to the station. Junction of Ulster & Delaware and Stony Clove 
& Catskill Mountain Railroads. Refreshments of all kinds served at short 
notice. Meals prepared at any hour by notifying proprietor by wire. 
Several of the best trout streams in the mountains are in this vicinity, and 
good hunting but a short distance from house. 

Single and double turnouts furnished at reasonable rates to take par- 
ties fishing, hunting or driving. First class board and accommodations. 
Barber shop in house. Direct telephone and telegraph communication 
with city. For other pariiculars and information as to hunting and fish- 
ing, board, etc., address as above. 

W B. MARTIN. Proprietor, 

(Formerly Proprietor of Martin House, Lexington, N. Y.) 



Terms S2.00 per Day. 



Special Arraiigciiieiits by the Week or Month. 

87 



rgr^MPEB?Tf 



(^HtsMIUnuntairiH 




^^^x 



ANE of the largest, most at- 
^ tractive, and most accessi- 
ble of the Catskill Mountain 
Hotels. Elevation 1560 feet. 
At the entrance of the famous 
f Stony Clove, and always delightfully cool. 
"The Tremper" is a spacious, well- 
built, and handsomely furnished modern 
Hotel, with capacity for 250 guests. It is steam 
heated ; has gas and electric bells throughout ; bath 
rooms, etc., with a most complete system of drainage. The purest of 
water, from a sparkling spring high up on the mountain side, is carried 
throughout the house Malaria and mosquitos unknown. Over 30 acres 
of beautiful grounds, billiard room, bowling alleys, tennis, archery and 
croquet grounds. Also complete livery and stable accommodations. 

Cottages on the grounds, with gas, water, electric bells, etc. Cuisine 
and Service second to none in the Catskills. Orchestra during the season. 
Rates— $2.50 per day and upward; $15.00 to $25.00 per week, 
according to time of arrival, size and location of rooms. 

For circulars, engagement of rooms, or other information, address, ~ 



( Winter Resort, ) 

-The HOTEL ST. GEORGE, 

( St. Augustine, Fla. ) 



C. D. TYLER, Prop., 
The Tremper House, 

PHOENICIA, N. Y. 



Phoenicia is reached direct from Albany or Xew York by the West Shore or Hudson 
River Railroad, also by Evening Line Steamers to Kingston, foot West loth Street, New 
York, or AUsany Day Line Steamers to Rhinecliff. Daily communication without change 
of cars via Penn. and West Shore Railroads from Washington, Baltimore, Philadelphia, 
New York City, (foot West 42d Street), to Tremper House at Phoenicia. 

Time from Xew York four hours. 

Hotel stages will meet all trains at the station, which is only one-quarter of a mile 
from the hotel. 







u\ \ \ 




ATCHINSON HOUSE, ^ ^ > ST Ai^ir uRD, N. Y. 



CS-O TO 



nEMIT 



FOR YOUR FIXE SANITARY 



Plumbing. Steam and Hot Water Heating 



ATsID GAS=KITTINQ. 



Stoves, Ranges and Furnaces, 

Copper, Tin --^ Sheet-Iron Work, 



LERALE AND RETAIL DEALER 



SEWER PIPE, DRAIN, TILE AND FIRE BRICK. 



Ho. 5e JSpoadway, HOnOOQT, D. V. 

Estimates cheerfull^^ furnished on application. 
8g 



H3Z0RD, THE DRUGGIST, 

■4>" z^i^ * 

proprietor of 

^ '' CSTY hKm BTOm, 

STAMFORD, N. Y. 

PrEscriptians Carefully CnmpnundEd hu CampEtEntPharmsoiz: 

Pine ^eiUET Qrticles 

Ooxislstinp: of 

Plush, Leathier a^d Oxidized Cases ; 

Haqd, Tooth\ ar^d Flest^ Brushes; 
Toilet Waters, Cologr^e, 

Harydkerchiief Extracts, Soaps, Etc. 



Big * Indian * Hotel, 

Big Indian, Ulster Co tint Vj N. Y. 



ELEVATION 1209 FEET. OPEN ALL THE YEAR. 



This well-known house is situated opposite the U. & D. R. R. Station at the mouth 
of the Big Indian Valley, which has gained notoriety from its Trout Streams which afford 
excellent fishing. Parties enroute to Slide Mountain, Winnisook Lodge, State Deer Park, 
and the famous east and west branches of the Neversink, will find this hotel convenient 
headquarters, as it is located on the only direct route, and is the nearest hotel to the above 
places. House has been newly furnished and otherwise improved. Accommodations 
for 35 guests. Terms §6 to $9 per week. Transient Si. 50 per day. Good livery attached. 

6. W. LA AEHT, Aaqager. 



THE WESTH0L>1, StamfordJOeJ^o., N. Y. 




THE WESTHOLM is situated in the western part of the 
Village of Stamford, has accommodations for forty per- 
sons. The- house is new, and has all modern improve- 
ments for the convenience and comfort of the refined and 
better class of summer visitors. The rooms are large, and 
many of them connecting, while all have remarkably pleasant 
views both of mountain and valley. 

Great care has also been taken to have the plumbing- 
work as perfect as possible. 

Within five minutes walk of depot, post-office or either 
of the five churches in the village. 
References given if desired. 

Terms on the basis of $io per week. Special arrange- 
ments with parties remaining during the season. 

Parties will be met at the depot upon notification. 
No applications desired from Hebrews. 
Address, 

Mrs. H. S. PRESTON, 

STAFFORD, Delaware Co., H, Y. 




Elevation 
2,000 feet. Ac- 
commodations, 
for 75. All mod- 
ern improve- 
ments includ- 
ing electric 
lights and 
bells, toilet 
rooms on each 
floor, bath 
rooms, etc. 
Central loca- 
tion. Fivemin- 
utes' walk to 
post and tele- 
graph offices, 
and churches; 
heated through- 
out. Prices on 
applica t i on . 
Free 'bus to 
and from 
trains. 



BENJ. McKILLIP, Prop., 

STAMFORD, N. Y. 



Wlim\ J. TURCK, 



L U M B E R 




:^iiX^ 




AT WHOLESALE AND RETAIL. 



SOUTHERN PINE TIMBER. NORTH CRRO- 

LINR PINE, ROUGH END ORES BED PINE 

EORROB, BHINOLEB, RNU LRTHB. 

CRR RNO CRROO LOTS. 



TELEPHONE 62-3 TURCK. 



ilOMB©«T. E, T< 



Central House and Cottages. 



ELEVATION, 1644 FEET. 



ACCOMMODATION FOR 175 GUESTS. 




NO HEBREWS TAKEN. 

"Tr^ OCATED in the befiutiful mountain region of Hunter — the terminus of the Stony 
lp\ra Clove & Catskill Mountain R. R., three-quarters of a mile from the depot. It is 
I JY^ surrounded by well-shaded, ample grounds, has piazzas on three sides, and is 
jlrv^Y supplied with pure spring water on each floor. 

-^^MJ NO BAR. «^»i«^- 

It is literally in the heart of the Catskills, and central to all points of interest in the 
mountains. Its situation renders it free from chills and fever, malaria and hay fever. A 
farm of thirty-five acres is connected with the house. Good stabling for horses. The 
summit of Hunter Mountain, the centre of the range, and the highest peak of the northern 
Catskills— 4052 feet— is but two and one-half miles distant. Hunter has telegraph, tele- 
phone, a money order office, post office with two daily mails to and from New York, three 
churches, Methodist (three minutes' walk), Presbyterian and Roman Catholic (each one- 
half mile), excellent physician (within-three minutes/, drug store, variety store, etc. The 
proprietor is happy to state that the patronage of the house hitherto has been of the best 
kind, embracing many well-known in ministerial, legal, literary and mercantile circles. It 
will be his aim to merit a continuance of the same ; and while he welcomes the return of 
all former guests, he also invites the patronage of others who desire a pleasant and quiet 
home. 

TERMS ^10 TO 318 PER WEEK. 



WE APPEND A FEW REFERENCES : 

Rev. E. R. Cr.\ven, D. D., 4516 Chester Ave., Philadelphia ; Er.^stus F. Brown, Coun- 
sellor-at-Law, gg Nassau St., or 22 East 127th St., New York City ; J. H. A. D.-vvisON, 
go2 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. ; William S Sharp. Trenton, N. J. ; A. C. Farn- 
HAM, 206 Broadway, N. Y., or 85 Monroe St., Brooklyn, N. Y. 

For further particulars, address the proprietor, 

WILLIAM J. RUSK, Hunter Greene Co., N. Y. 




Sur^tef Bottle 



tS located in the pleasant village of Hunter, "Among the Catskills,'' and abounds in 
magnificent mountain Scenery. This well-known house is at an elevation of 1644 feet 
above tidewater, and immediately opposite — but two miles distant— is Hunter 
Mountain, 4052 feet high, the highest peak of the whole Catskill Range. The rooms all 
. command plea.sant views, and are neatly and comfortably furnished, many of them 
^" having private balconies. Sufficient arrangements to warm the rooms in cold weather. 
E.KCursionists entertained at reasonable rates. Good bath-rooms in the House. 
The Table, which is one of the most important features, and to which we give special 
attention, is supplied with butter, eggs, milk and vegetables fresh from vicinity of house. 
Cuisine as good as any house in the Catskills. Pure spring water, constantly running, 
is supplied by a never-failing spring. 

Kates for Board — Transients, $2.50 to $3.00 per day, according to location of room. 
Weekly Board, from $io.oo to $17.00. To families remaining the entire season, we make 
speciaf rates. Special rates for May and June, September and October. Sanitary arrange- 
ments perfect. 

Livery— First-class livery and conveyances of all kinds to hire. Buggies, two, three 
and four-seated wagons for 'pleasure parties. Hunter House Omnibus meets all trains. 
Free to and from the house. Five minutes' ride from depot. Good Boarding stable 
for parties bringing their own horses. 

Aiuusenients— Billiard Room and Bowling Alley on the premises. Parlor entertain- 
ments permitted. Hunter has three churches — Presbyterian, Methodist and Catholic. 
Episcopal services in Union Hall. First-class barber shop in the house. 



Address : 



n. C. VAN PELT, Hunter, Greene Co., N. Y. 



Access-Bj' West Shore Railroad, from foot of Franklin Street or 42d Street, North River, 
to Kingston, thence by Ulster & Delaware Railroad to Phoenicia, then by Stony Clove 
& Catskill Mountain Railwav to Hunter. 

Hudson River Railroad from 42d Street (Grand Central Depot), to Rhinebeck, thence by 
ferrv to Rondout, and Ulster & Delaware Railroad, as above. 

Dav Boats from foot of Desbrosses Street and 22d Street to Rhinebeck, thence by ferry 
to Rondout and Ulster & Delaware Railroad,^as above. 

The J. W. Baldwin, from foot of West loth Street, N. R., Monday, Wednesday and 
Fridav, at 4 p. m. 

The William F. Romer, from foot of West loth Street, N. R., Tuesday and Thursday at 
4 p. m. ; Saturday, at i p. m. 

94 



TIE UBBEL EOeSE IIID MlTEBSKIll FllLS 

Under ^'eW flanagement the Fast Five Seasons. 

One mile from Hotel Kaaterskill; One mile and a half from 
CatsklU Mountain House. 




LAUREIv HOUSE-J. R- PALMER, Proprietor. 

POST OFFICE ADDRESS, HAINES' FALLS P. 0., GREENE CO., SEW YORK. 

fHE favorable and well-known Laurel House, located at the head of the celebrated 
Kaaterskill Falls, has recently been enlarged and newly furnished, having a 
capacity of 250 guests. Entire new plumbing and kitchen facilities. The entire 
management will be under the personal supervision of the proprietor, J. R. Palmer, who 
is also manager of the Palmer House, the famous winter resort, Lakewood, N. J. Time 
from New York, three hours and a half. Only Pure Spring Water Uscd. Per- 
fect Drainage. No Malaria. 'Bus meets all trains from Laurel House Station free 
of charge. Gas, hot and cold baths, electric bells, etc. Over 600 feet of piazza on the 
building-more than any other hotel on the Mountains. First-class livery. Music by 
good orchestra, 

June and Septernber, $15 to $20 for Single Roorns, $20 to $35 for 

Double Roorns. vJuly and August, $15 to $25 for Single, $25 

to $40 for Double. Daily, $2.50 to $4.00 a Day. 



Circulars furnished on aipplicition. 



Western L'nion Telegraph Office in the House. 



[n th)c {4eart of tb)e CatsK-ill Ivjouritiaigs. 




Rip Van Winkle House 

PINE HILL, ULSTER COUNTY, N. Y. 



Pine Hill is on the line of the Ulster & Delaware R. R., about midway between the 
eastern and western boundaries of the Catskill range, and owing to the wildness and 
grandeur of surrounding mountains, has been called the "Switzerland of America." 
The house is one-half a mile from the depot, beautifully situated on the mountain 
side overlooking the liig Indian Valley, and surrounded by some of the highest peaks of 
the famous Catskill Mountains. The water supply coming from a spring located several 
hundred feet above the house, insures against any possible impurity. The house 
can accommodate 125 guests and will be open for the season June ist. The rooms are 
lighted by gas and provided with electric liells. 

Rates for Board. 

Double rooms from $20 to $50 per week, and single rooms from $10 up, according 
to location. Transient guests, S3 per day. Special rates for those remaining the entire 
season. For further particulars, address : 

S. p. VAN LOAN. 



SAGHS HOQSG, 

Prattsville, N. Y. 

Accommodalions for 60, five miles from station, location central, 
scenery unsurpassed, beautiful lawn, boating, fishing, post and telegraph 
offices conveniently near. Good walks and beautiful drives. Send for 
particulars. 



G. K. BQSH, 

Prattsville, N. Y. 

Comfor'.able and pleasant accommodations for 20; location central ; 
conveniently near post and telegraph oflices. For terms which are mod- 
erate, apply. Just the place you are looking for in which to spend a pleas- 
ant summer. 



F0^I:<G:H HOQS0, 

CHARLES FOWLER, Proprietor, Prattsville, N. Y. 

Accommodations for 40; terms, $7 to |io per week according to 
location of room and length of stay. Transient $2 per day. Good livery 
attached. Beautiful drives and walks in every direction. Three mails 
dady. Five miles from Grand Gorge station. Comfortable quarters 
always reserved for transient guests. Write for particulars. 



MARCUS LANE, Proprietor, West Hurley, N. Y. 

Accommodations for 50. Rates $5 to $7 ; transient $2 per day : }i 
ile from station. Livery attached. House open all year. 



JAMES CULLEN, Proprietor, West Hurley, N. Y. 

Opposite depot. Accommodations for lo transient. House open 
all year. Eveiylhinp: first-class. For terms appl\-. 



^OODSTOGIK HOUSE. 

WM. F. VAN NATTEN, I'roprietor, Woodstock, N. Y. 

Accommodations for 75. Desirable locition. Ciood fishing. Pine 
grove near by. Private conveyance meets guests at station. Fare 50 
cents. For terms apply. 



"Tancp's 3pook House and Fapna, 

Dr. A. H. SMITH, Proprietor, Woodstock, N. Y. 

In center of the Catskills. Accommodations for 50 guesis. 3)^ 
hours from New York ; half hour from station ; four miles from sum- 
mit of Overlook Mountain which elevation is 3200 feet. All modern 
improvements, including bath, hot and cold water. Superior drainage. 
Double piazza, beautiful shade including pine grove of two acres. Lake 
2)4 miles from house. Table first-class with all luxuries of season. 
Music. Special rates to families and parties wishing to make a long 
stay. Farm which furnishes house with milk and vegetables. Pleasant 
walks and drives. All out-door games for exercise and amusement. 
Terms I7 to $12. Apply for further particulars. 



The 



New Grant House 



STAIVLKORD, N. Y. 




©Y/^lPP opet^ (^uae i^t an(\ 



remain opea ui^fiP ^,o^5'em■6er ^x^f. 



I 



Thie l^oUse is r\ew, well 
h^eated, ar\d furbished with^ 
all rr^oderr^ irr^proverr^erits, 
iricludirig electric bells, elec- 
tric ligh\ts ar^d Westerr^ Ur^ioq 
Telegraphy. Livery. 



For rates and other particulars, address, 

J. P. GRANT, Proprietor. 



L«fC. 



BAf^CROFT MoUSE, 

Stamford, '^Delaware Co., JM. Y. 




WS^IE I5ANCROFT HOUSE is beautifully situated at 
^ the western end of Stamford villao'e, at an elevation 
of 2,000 feet, commandino- a fine view of th(; surrounding- 
mountains and overlooking the Delaware Valley. As the 
buildino- stands in the centre of a lari^e open lot, there are 
no unpleasant l)ack rooms. All are li,L;ht and airy and have 
t^'ood views. 

Ext.cnsive Piazzas. Large Lawn in Front and Rear- 
Lawn Tennis, Croquet, etc. 

The sanitary condition is perfect. Cuisine is noted as one of the best. Oood, pure 
spring water. Five minutes from churches, telegraph, post-office and depot. 



George H. Bancroft. 



Til llTUR 

.Jig '^ Ms ^='^ ^ xa. 



^ ^ Satsl^lll FRountalns, 



mim FALLS, Gl^EENE CO., N. y. 




A NEW AND MODERNLY ARRANGED HOTEL, WILL OPEN FOR ITS 
THIRD SEASON ABOUT JUNE 28TH, 1895. 

WIIE Antlers is pleasnntly situated on the Old Mountain House Road, directly in 
fiont (»( tlie famous Ili'-;h I'eak and Round Top Mountains, 3800 and 3500 feet 
liiiih, respectively. The altitude of the Hotel is 2000 ft., and as it stands upon 
an elevation with the rollint^ hills intervening between it and the mountains, a refreshing 
breeze can be enjoyed at all times. 

The parlor floor consists of Parlor, Office, Ladies' Morning Room, Gentlemen's 
Smoking Room, Lavatory, several Guest Chambers and the most pleasant and hand- 
somest Dining Room on the Mountain. Parlor, Dining, Morning and .Smoking Rooms 
have large open fire-places. 

Guests Rooms large and airy, \^ith jjleasant mountain views, hot and cold water on 
every floor, Bath and Toilet Rooms. The latest improved sanitary plumbing assures 
guests from any discomfort. Piazza i2x2co feet. Direct communication with Post and 
Telegraph Offices. A well equipped I^ivery. 

All the appointments are strictly first-class, and the usual objectional features to a 
select family hotel have been carefully excluded. 

Walks and drives innumerable and unsurpassed. Accessible by U. & I). R. R. 

For terms and descriptive circular, address 

BUTLER & LEGGETT, Proprietors, 

HEBREWS NOT RECEIVED. HAINES FALLS, N. Y. 



R OGGEN^S IVI O^JNTAIN H OTEL 



IN THE HEART OF THE CATSKILLS. 

Open all tbc IJcav. Hcco1nmo^ation for 150 Guests. Elevation 2,000 feet above •Ci^e 

Onlv five minutes' l•i^e from Station. Carriages will be in waitinij for ©uests on 

arrival of "Grains. 



W. P. ELLIS, Proprietor. 



TANNERSVILLE, 

Greene Co., N. Y. 




CTlIE Hotel Farm of two hundred and fifty acres provides an abundance of iresh vcge- 
AJ tables, milk, poultry, etc. Pure spring water on eacli floor. 

Many places of interest in the vicinity, including Hotel Kaaterskiil, Mountain House, 
Kaaterskill Falls, Laurel House, ELaines Falls, Overlook Mountain House, Hunter, Clum 
Hill, Star Rock, Twilight Park, Kaaterskill and Plaaterkill Cloves, the wonderful Stony 
Clove, Tannersville Driving Park, Beaver Lake, Raspberry Lane, Elka Park, Schoharie 
Manor, East-Kill \'alley. Fawn's Leap, Profde Rock and Sleepy Hollow. 

Adjoining the hotel property is the new Onteora Park, which has Ijeen laid out in 
Graded Drives, Shaded Walks and many Cottages erected. 

Telegraph and Telephone, Livery, Billiards, Bowling, Barber Shop, Tennis and 
Croquet. Post-Ofiice opposite the Hotel. Excellent Fishing and Boating. 

TERMS: 

For July and August $lo.oo to $15.00 per week; $2.00, $2.50 per day. At 
other seasons of the year, terms on application. Special rates to families. 

ROUTE FROM NEW YORK. 

IFes/ Shore R. J?., via Kingston, all rail to Tannersville, or via Cafskill, West Shore, or N. 
V. C. b" H. R. R. R., and Otis Elevatinfr R. R., to Tannersville. Day or Ni'rht 
, Boats via Kingston or Catskill, thence by rail to Tannersville. 

On Application Carriages will meet Guests at Palenville. 



^ 



riFTH StAS( 



-^-^^^^T^^ 



m 



fHIS house is situated on the corner of Main and Depot Streets in such a manner that 
there are no back rooms. It is within a few rods of the Depot, Post Office, Bank, 
Churches and first-class livery stables. It is newly built and furnished, with a 
beautiful and shady park attached, containing seats, hammocks and other com- 
fortable attachments. The'halls and verandas are wide and spacious. From the verandas 
which are on each story and on either side of the house, can be had a full view of the 
villa}<e as well as all the surroundin.if mountain and valley scenery. It is heated with 
steam, li.i;hted by electricity, has hot and cold water, closets and bath rooms on each floor, 
has an elevator and in fact is the best constructed house for health, comfort and enjoy- 
ment in this section of the country. 

Private Dining Rooms specially for the accommodation of Excursion Parties from 
other hotels and boarding houses on the line of the Ulster & Delaware Railroad. Those 
wishing to visit Mount Utsayantha on the arrival of the morning train and return on the 
afternoon train, can have meals ready on arrival, by telegraphing to the proprietor and 
conveyance for the mountain furnished at reasonable rates. Toiirists for Cooperstown 
taken to the railroad station at West Davenport. 

The bar is supplied with the choicest wines, liquors and cigars. 

Rooms will be furnished single or en suite, with parlors, as desired. 

The tables will be furnished with plenty of fresh eggs, butter, milk, poultry, fruits 
and vegetables from farmers of this vicinity with whom I have made special contracts. 

A free 'Bus to and from all trains. 

Terms from $8 to $25 per week according to rooms. $2 to $3 per day. 



1^0 Eo TiiLLnMlb<^Ep ri^@ri^EET®i, 

STAIVIFORD, DeLAV/AF?e GOUISTY, MGW YORt^- 

Elevatior\ 2000 Feet. AccorT\rT\odatior\5 for' 100 GUests- 



EXCURSION 

. — 'r<-* — - 

WEST POINT 




'r, H P' 






CN -J 

CM -J 

T U 

0) JJ 

-J JE 



E.E 

f:2 



WEST SHORE 



SAME DAY. 



COCKBURN HOUSE, 



ESTABLISHED 1877. 

19th SEASON. 








;^iS 



^^ -r^^m 



'fi&\ 




WHIS well known Summer Resort, situated in the midst of Vn- Cj.islciii :MMu:itains, 
along the Vallej' of the Esopus Creek, on the line of the Ulster & Delaware 
Railroad, and central parts of the mountains, has been improved throughout, 
and will accommodate 135 guests. Twenty-four miles from the Hudson River, 
and has all the accommodations, post-office, telegraph and express offices at the house. 
Modern built house, broad piazzas, large air\' rooms, high ceilings, and an abundance of 
shade. Beautiful and romantic scenerj-, secluded valleys and rambles, the most mag- 
nificent in southern New York, beautiful pine grove short walk from house. Three miles 
from the entrance of the famous Stony Clove which leads to Hunter and Tannersville. 
Pleasant drives through the gatewavs of the mountains to the Overlook Mountain House, 
Grand Hotel and Hotel Kaaterskill, and all other attractive parts of the mountains. 
Billiard parlor connected with the house, i^^o malaria, no mosquitoes, good fishing, hunt- 
ing, croquet, lawn tennis, etc. Fine accommodations for horses arid carriage's ; also, 
horses and carriages to let. Table always first-class ; supplied with all the luxuries of 
the season, at a moderate price. 



P. 0. Address, Longyear, Ulster Co., N. Y. 



Mt. Pleasant, Ulster,Co .'l\l. Y. 



«-<-»t/^^ ROUTES. =^2^**-*^ 

Steamers James W. Baldwin and William F. Romer leave New York daily, except Sun- 
day, from Pier 46, West loth Street, at 4 o'clock P. M., except Saturday, when Steamer 
William F. Romer leaves at i o'clock, P. M. Steamer Mary Powell, foot of Desbrosses 
Street daily, except Sunday, at 3 o'clock, landing at Kingston ; connects the following 
morning ; Albany Day Line Steamers, foot of Desbrosses Street, at 8.30 A. M., landing a't 
Rhinecliffi, ; also Hudson River Railroad via Rhinebeck Ferry to Kingston ; also West 
Shore Railroad to Kingston. Ulster & Delaware Railroad connects with all railroads and 
steamers mentioned. Afternoon trains leave Grand Central Depot, or West Shore Depot, 
foot of 42d Street, about 4 o'clock, arriving at Cockburn House at 8 o'clock. No expense 
for guests or ' 



■^ee^=e; 1895 :e^ 



NEW YORK -KINGSTON 



LINE STEA-PvIERS 



Catskill Mountains. 






r„ mnm 

. . FROM . . 

Foot West lOth Street, Pier 46 North River, Daily, Except Sunday, at 4 P. M. 

Saturday Boat, 1 P. JVC. 

Connecting at Rondout with Express Train for all Stations on Ulster 

& Delaware, Stony Clove and Kaaterskill Railroads, 

and all points in the 

Gatskill FDountains. 

ON SUNDAYS during the summer months. 

Two boats will leave for NEW YORK— Steamer James W. Baldwin 
will leave RONDOUT at 6.oo o'clock P. M., and vSteamer William 
F. Romer on arrival of last train on the Ulster & Delaware R. R. will 
leave RONDOUT at II :oo o'clock p. M. ****** 

RONDOUT, N. Y. 




(orhfort 

IN 

Travel 

Is realized in the highest 
degree on the Famous Fast 
Through Trains of the 

niflcently Equipped ElCSIMI CMI^AL 

"The Niagara Falls Route." 

H 

WAGNER PALACE SLEEPING CARS, 

Running through without change between 

NEW YORK and BOSTON, DETROIT, CHICAGO 
and the West. 

Via NEW YORK CENTRAL and HUDSON RIVER, and BOSTON and 
ALBANY RAILROADS. 



baa 

WITH 



The Favorite Summer 
Tourist Route 

From Chicago to all Eastern Resorts 
and from the East to Mackinaw 
Island, Petoskey, St. Clair Springs 
and the resorts of the West and 
Northwest. 



Send ten cents for 
A SUMMER NOTE BOOK. 

1Rcri0e& an^ iprofusclv UltustratcJ. 

O. W. RUGGLES, 

GenI Passenger and Ticket Agent, 
CHICAGO, ILL. 




W. H. UNDERWOOD, 

Eastern Passenger Agent, 

BUFFALO, N. Y. 



^^THE PePaLAR ROaTE^^ 

TO THE 

GATSKILL ® MeaNTAINS 

IS THE 



ztmmL 



F"^?^ 



KAATERSKILL FALLS. 

THIS great railroad also reaches by its tlirougli car lines more health and pleasure 
resorts than any other American line. 

The New York Central carries its passengers luxuriously, with speed, comfort and 
safely. 

IDjONT WmL T<0) SEMh TW@ 

2 cent stamps to George H. Daniels, General Passenger Agent, Grand Central Station, 
New York, for a copy of the new Illustrated Catalogue of the "Four Track Series" 
Books and Etchings— sixteen Books and eight Etchings. 

loS 



HUDSON RIVER BY DAYLIGHT. 



XL be /iDost Cbarmfng 1Inlan^ TMater Urip 
on tbc Hmerican Continent. 




THE PALACE IRON STEAMERS 



"IBcu; STork" and "Slbang" 



m B/^T OKIE 

DAILY. EXCEPT SUNDAY, FROM 

BROOKLYN, (by Annex) - 8.00 A. M. I XKW YORK, 22<l St. Pier, N. R., 9.00 A. M. 

NEW YORK, Desbrosses St. Pier, 8.40 " | ALBANY, foot of Hamilton St., 830 " 

Connecting at RHINEBECK (bv Ferry) with Express Trains on the 
ULSTER & DELAWARE RAILROAD for all points in the 

CATSKILL FOUNTAINS. 

RETURNING, DIRECT CONNECTION IS MADE WITH 
STEAMERS FOR NEW YORK. 

THE ATTRACTIVE TOURIST ROUTE 

To Stamford, Grand Gorge, Roxbury, Grand Hotel, Pine Hill, Shandaken, Phoenicia, Mount 

Pleasant, Shokan, Windham, Hunter, Tannersville, Haines' Corners, Hotel 

Kaaterskill, Catskill Mountain House, Laurel House, Twilight, 

Santa Cruz, Sunset, Elka and Onteora Parks, and all 

other resorts of the Catskills. 



T 



HE superb steamers of the Day Line are the fastest in the world and are the finest 
of their class afloat. They are designed exclusively for the passenger service and 
carry no freight. Their' rich furnishings, costly 'paintings, private parlors and 
main deck dining rooms, commanding the river scenery have given them a world- 
wide reputation. 



Excursion Uichets to Catsftill flDountain Jpoints are for sale at all tbe 1Wcw IL'orft an6 ffirooftlsn 
©ffices of tbc ©as Xinc at rc^ucc6 rates. 36aggagc cbccf^e^ tbrougb to Sestination. 

Se>ia! Six Cents far copy of SUMMER EXCURSION BOOK." 

Desbrosses Street Pier, New York. 



C. T. Van Santvoord, 



r. Be Hibbard, 



General Manager 



Gen'l Passenger Agent. 



:-:Ulster& Delaware:-: 



Only All-Rail Route . . 

TO THE 

. . . Catskill Moimtaiiis 



TIME TABLE IN EFFECT 



-Hjc Tvlay llthi, 1895. ^l^- 



N. A. SIMS. 

Qen'l Passenger Agent 
General OffioeSj 

RONDOUT, N. Y. 

KINSSTON CReeMAN PRINT, RONDOUT, N. Y. 




ULSTER a DEIAWARE 



GOING WEST. 





1^ 


li 


9 


7 


13 


23 


STATIONS. 


1 


r 






West Shore r. R. 
Lv Jersey City, P. R. R 






"h'ik" 

3 30 


11 20 
11 20 
11 3i 






" N Y Franklin Street .. 






" N. Y., West 4-id Street. . 










N. Y. C. & H. R. R. R. 

Lv. N. Y., Grand Cen. Sfn. 








11 30 







Hudson River Day Line. 

Lv. N. Y.. r)e>br..sscs Street. 


1 


8 40 

9 00 






•• X. Y.. W. ^.'.MStr.rtPier 






Night Line Steamers. 
Lv. N. Y , Foot W. 10th St. . 




, P.M 

.... 1 *4 00 








Zd. Rondont.-. 

" Kingston 

" Fair Street Depot 

" Stony Hollow 



2 
3 

8 
9 
12 
15 
17 
J8 
21 
22 
24 
27 
32 
33 
36 
39 
41 
44 
48 
51 
5:} 
59 
65 

74 

78 
82 
87 


1 Ut 
Tide' 7 40 
]f4! 7 53 
]50j 7 57 
410 8 06 
530' 8 17 


P,M 
2.55 
3 08 
3 12 
3 21 
3 31 
3 38 
3 45 
3 51 

3 55 

4 01 
406 
4 15 
4 26 
4 39 
4 44 

4 55 

5 09 
5 18 
5 27 
5 40 

5 47 

6 04 
6 17 
6 28 
6 37 
6 47 

6 56 

7 05 
P.M 


P,M 

6 50 

7 10 
7 13 
7 21 
7 30 
7 37 
7 43 
7 48 
7 52 

7 58 

8 02 
8 06 
8 15 
8 25 
8 29 
8 42 

8 57 

9 05 
9 13 

9 30 
9 35 
9 47 
10 01 
10 13 
10 20 
10 30 
RM 








" Olive Branch 

" Browns Station 

" Brodheads Bridge 

'• Shokan 

'• Boiceville 

•• (old Brook 

'■ 3It Pleasant 

■• Phcenicia 

" Allaben 

■' Shandaken 

" Big Indian 


511 
525 
500 
5:^3 
615 
675 
700 
798 
990 
1060 
1209 
1660 
1886 
1516 
1344 
1374 
1399 
1497 
1570 
1815 
1767 
1614 
1.550 
1550 


8 24 
8 31 
8 37 
8 42 
8 48 
8 52 

8 59 

9 10 

9 as 

9 28 
9 45 
10 00 
10 10 
10 19 
10 32 
10 39 
10 44 

10 57 

11 11 
11 23 
11 32 
11 42 

11 52 

12 03 
P.M 




" Pine Hill 




' ' G rand Hotel Station .... 




" Arkville 


5 20 




5 30 


" Halcottville 

" Roxbury 


6 15 

6 30 

7 05 


•' South Gilboa 


7 25 


" Stamford 

•' Hobart 

'• South Kortright 

Ar. Bloomville 


8 00 
8 30 

8 50 

9 10 
IM 



*Except Sundays and one o'clock on Saturdays. 

Hudson River Day Line Steamers first trip from New York, May i 



al 



ULSTER ft DELAWARE 




GOING EAST. 







2 i 
|| 

p 




8 


3 


23 


STATIONS. 


it 
fi 


"3 
ft 




L 


V. Bloomville 

' South Kortright. 




5 

9 


7 30 
7 40 

7 50 

8 00 
8 07 
8 20 


P.M 
1 25 
1 35 
1 45 

1 55 

2 02 

3 15 
2 29 
242 

2 47 

3 00 
3 12 
3 24 
3 31 
3 43 
3 50 

3 55 

4 07 
4 15 
4 20 
4 24 
4 30 
4 34 
4 40 
4 47 


m 

11 30 
11 52 










' Stamford 


13 

16 

32 


12 40 
12 55 






1 45 




■ Rosbury 


28 1 8 35 


2 31 




• Halcottville 


84 


8 48 


3 00 




' Kellv 's Corners 


36 


8 53 

9 05 
9 16 
9 28 
9 35 
9 48 
9 55 

10 00 
10 15 
10 22 
10 27 
10 31 
10 37 
10 41 
10 47 

10 54 

11 01 
11 05 
11 15 
11 20 
11 30 


3 10 




' Arkville. 






3 20 






43 
46 

4S 




RM 




' Grand Hotel Station. . . . 
' Pine Hill 








51 






' Shandaken 

' Allaben 


54 

55 ' 






' Phoenicia 

' Mt Pleasant 


60 
63 
65 


'.'.'.'.'.'.'.'. 






' Boiceville 

' Shokan 

' Brodhead's Bridge 

' Brown's Station 

' Olive Branch 


66 

70 
72 

75 
78 
79 
84 
85 




........ 




' West Hurley 

' Stony Hollow 


4 54 1 

4 58 i 


A 


' Fair Street Depot 


5 08 1 

5 15 ! 


J". Rondout 


87 


5 25 

RM 








Night line Steamers. 

^r. N.Y., Foot W. 10th St.. 








*3 00 






UDSON River Day Line. 






P.M 

5 30 

6 00 






• N. Y., DfsbrossesSt.... 










N. Y. C. & H. R. R. R. 

Av. Grand Central Station. . 






P,M 
3 25 


P.M 
8 45 




^ 


West Shore r. R. 

)•. N Y West 4-'d Street 


P,M 

2 45 

3 (.0 
3 07 


P.M 

8 55 

9 10 








' Jersey City. P. K. R 









*No steamer from Rondout on Saturdays. 

Hudson River Day Line Steamers first trip from Albany, May 29. 



ULSTER a DEiAWARE 



m 



m 



STONY CLOVE AND KAATERSKILL RAILROADS, 

(narrow quaqe division.) 



GOING NOKTH. 



GOING SOUTH. 



13 


7 
























r% 




M 






O 


P,M 


P.M 


6 fiO 


■2 55 


7 10 


:\ 08 


8 12 


4 21 


P.M 


P,M 


H 15 


4 25 


K a:l 


4 85 


8 85 


4 52 


H 47 


5 05 


t8 55 


t5 15 


9 ua 


5 'iA 


9S12 


5635 



(S£l 



STATIONS. 



7 401 . 
7 53i • 
9 lo:. 



9 10 

9 20. 2 

9 .37, 5 

9 50 8 

lOWOl 10 

10 08 12^ 

iOftiO' 15 



U. & D. R. R. 

Lv Rondout Ar. 

Lv Kingston Ar.l 

Ar FhcBnicia Lv. 

Narrow Guage Division. 

Lv Phoenicia Ar. 

Cbicbesters 

Lanesville < 

Edge wood 

I Stony Clove 

Ar. .Kaat erskill Juncfn . . Lv. 



Ar Hunter. 



.Lv. 



5 « 
«|-^ 



TideU 30 5 2! 
184ill 20 5 15 
79-->j l0 15 4 7 

""I A,M \^m 

798' 9 00 3 55 

ion; 8 50 3 45 

1500' 8 34 3 29 

1793J 8 20 3 15 
2071 f< 10 t3 04 

1700, 8 00 2 53 

I6O5! 7|)|.50 21540 



9 03 
9 12 
9 20 
P.M 



5 25 10 lOi 12 

5 35 10 20 15 

5 43 10 28 17 

P,M I AM 19 

.... 20 

' 21 



Lv. .Kaaterskill Junct'n. . Ar. 

Tannersville 

Haine's Corners 

...Laurel House Station... ! 

Kaaterskill 

^r-..Catskill MTn Srn..£i>. 



1700 


; 55 


2 45 . . . 


1862 


7 45 


2 35 




1920 


7 35 


2 25 




2067 


A.M 


RM 




2145 








2145 









Trains Connecting witli Otis Elevating Railway, 

(NARROW QUAQE DIVISION.) 



— 


— 




1 


STATIONS. 


1 

5| 
















2 
4 
5 
6 


Lv Tannersville Ar. 

Haine's Corners 

. . . Laurel House Station. . . 


6 

4 
2 
1 















































Ar. .Catskill WVn St'n. .Lv. 





















T 



\)(l l^au^ts of 
Rip Van Winkle 



»,-?'""' °^ CONGRESS 



3 014 108 0U 8 




What a tale has been told us of good old Rip 
Van Winkle ! 

What a favorite with all but old Dame Van 
Winkle ! 

How the children would shout with joy when- 
ever he approached. Why ! he assisted at then 
sports, made their playthings, taught them to fl\ 
kites and shoot marbles, and told them long stoi le-, 
about ghosts, witches and Indians. 

Why ! the stray dogs loved him ; surrounded 
by a troup of them, hanging on his skirts, clam- 
bering on his back, playing a thousand tricks on 
him with impunity, and not a dog would bark at 
him throughout tlie neighborhood. "'*. 

Rip did not take kindly to labor for revenue, but Dame \'.ii, \\ iiikW ilul He was 
one of those happy mortals of foolish, well-oiled dispositions, who would take the 
world easy, eat white bread or brown, whiche\er could be liad with least thought oi 
trouble and would rather starve on a penny than work for a pound. If left to himselt 
he would have whistled life away in perfect contenimeni ; but his wife kepi contin- 
ually dinning in his ears about his idleness, his carelessness, and the ruin he was 
bringing on his family. Morning, noon and night her tongue was incessantly going, 
and everything he said or did was sure to produce a torrent of household eloquence. 

In search of quiet and rest old Rip started on a long ramble and unconsciously 
scrambled to one of the highest of the Catskill Mountains. Late in the afternoon, 
panting and fatigued, he threw himself on a green knoll, covered with mountain herb- 
age that crowned the brow of a precipice. 

From an opening between the trees he could overlook all the lower country for 
many a mile of ricli woodland. He saw ata distance the lordly Hudson, far, far below 
him, moving on its silent but majestic course, with a reflection of a purple cloud, or 
the sail of a lagging bark, here and therp sleeping on its glassv bosom, and at last 
losing itself in the blue Highlands. 

On the other side he looked down into the deep mountain glen, wild, lonely and 
shagged, the bottom filled with fragments from the impending cliffs, and scarcely 
lighted by the reflected rays of the setting sun. For some time Rip lay musing oh 
this scene ; evening was gradually advancing, and the beautiful mountains began to 
throw their long blue shadows over the valleys; he saw that it would be dark long 
before he coula reach the village, and he heaved a heavy sigh when he thought of 
encountering the terrors of Dame Van Winkle. 

Rip then met the queer little Dutch people. He was naturally a thirsty soul and 
was soon tempted to help himself to their Holland beverage, which proved itself too 
strong for him. 

Twenty long years of silent slumber followed. 

The war of the Revolution took place ; George Washington was the hero of many 
a battle in the historic Hudson Valley against the forces of King George HI. 

Rip awoke and returned to town, Where he had some difficulty in finding his folks 
and oKl acquaintances. Dame Van Winkle had gone forever, but his grandchildren 
remained. 

When railroads became the fashion and then a necessity, the 
^ W ^T^ f^ > I '» ^^ T_T ^N T^ T"^ found its way up the silverv 

\A/ I" ^-^ I Q — ^^ p5l I J L^ r Hudson, and with the finest 
W I *>»mj X \mj ^ JL^^/ X ^Aaa^equipment ever run and with- 

out change of cars, conveys 
passengers as no other line 
can, between Philadelphia, 



=RAILROAD= 



Long Branch and Xew Vork, 

through to the heart of the 



^atsl^ill /r\o(J9tai9S 



to Bloomville, stopping at principal stations en route, and connecting at Kingston with 
a most complete car line from points from and between Washington, Baltimore, Phil- 
adelphia and New York, w-hich conveys passengers to Saratoga and Lake George. 

In addition to this popular mountain line, a sleeping car service, par excellence, is 
in effect between New York, West Point, Albany, Utica, Syracuse, Rochester, Buffalo, 
Niagara Falls, Toronto, Detroit, Cleveland, Chicago and St. Louis. 

Its Agents will furnish information. 

C. E. LAMBERT, 

General Passengeb Agent, 
5 Vanderbilt Ave., New York. 



3 



u 



2- 



